Tai Chi's Long-term Benefits: Slowing Parkinson's and Reducing Medication Dependency

Regular practice of tai chi, a Chinese martial art, may slow the progression of motor and nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson's disease and delay the need for increased medication dosage, according to a study. The benefits of long-term tai chi practice included a reduction in complications associated with Parkinson's, particularly in dyskinesia, cognitive impairment, and restless leg syndrome. Tai chi was found to have a positive effect on motor function, quality of life, sleep, and cognition, while also reducing the prevalence of complications and several nonmotor symptoms. However, the study was observational and the number of participants was relatively small.