The effect of Ai Chi aquatic therapy on individuals with knee osteoarthritis: a pilot study

• Published in: Journal of Physical Therapy Science Vol. 29; no. 5; pp. 884 - 890
• Main Authors: So, Billy C.L., Kong, Iris S.Y., Lee, Roy K.L., Man, Ryan W.F., Tse, William H.K., Fong, Adalade K.W., Tsang, William W.N.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Japan The Society of Physical Therapy Science 2017
• Subjects: Aquatic exercise; Knee osteoarthritis; Original; Tai Chi; Tai Chi; Aquatic exercise; Knee osteoarthritis
• ISSN: 0915-5287; 2187-5626
• DOI: 10.1589/jpts.29.884

[Purpose] To examine the efficacy of Ai Chi in relieving the pain and stiffness of knee osteoarthritis and improving, physical functioning, proprioception and quality of life. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-five persons with knee osteoarthritis completed 5 weeks Ai Chi practice (60 minutes per session, twice per week, 10 sessions in total). Knee pain and stiffness were measured before and after the intervention program. [Results] Significant improvements in pain, self-perceived physical functioning and self-perceived stiffness were observed after the Ai-Chi intervention. On average, no significant change in knee range of motion, 6-minute walk test distances or proprioception was observed. [Conclusion] A five-week Ai Chi intervention can improve the pain and stiffness of knee osteoarthritis and self-perceived physical functions and quality of life improvement. Ai Chi may be another treatment choice for people with knee OA to practice in the community.