How Does Tai Chi Help Arthritis?

Introduction

Tai chi is a series of slow movements that is similar to a mixture of yoga and meditation. Tai chi is believed to have many benefits for its participants ranging from stress relief to pain relief. Another one of these benefits is that tai chi can be a great way to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis.

Flexibility

The first way in which tai chi helps those with arthritis is by increasing flexibility. People with limited flexibility tend to be more prone to arthritis as the joints are stiff and immobile. Tai chi movement help the joints become flexible helping to relieve the pain and stiffness often felt by arthritis sufferers.

Muscle Strength

Another way that tai chi helps arthritis sufferers is through gaining muscle strength. Joints need surrounding muscles to protect and strengthen them. Bodies that are older or more sedentary wear down these muscles so that the joints are no longer protected. Tai chi focuses specifically on these beneficial muscles which strengthens the joints and helps reverse arthritis issues.

Fitness

Tai chi also helps its participants by increasing their fitness levels. This helps with arthritis by increasing the blood and oxygen supplies to the joints. Joints need blood and oxygen to stay healthy and stable. This increased fitness will not only help relieve arthritis pain, but it will also help increase the activity level of the arthritis sufferer allowing them to get out and do more of the things that they love to do.

Accessibility

One of the greatest benefits of tai chi to an arthritis sufferer is its accessibility. Since tai chi has so many levels ranging from the very beginner to advanced, people of all ages and health levels can jump right in and start benefiting from the exercises. This is especially beneficial for elderly people with arthritis, as the movements can be simple, slow, and relaxing. This helps relieve the arthritis pain without causing muscle soreness or other common problems associated with exercise.

Resources

• Tai Chi and Arthritis