The Effect of Tai Chi on Improving Balance and Reducing the Risk of Falls in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis

Introduction and Objective: Knee osteoarthritis is a common joint disease in older adults, characterized by pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. These symptoms can lead to a decreased quality of life, reduced independence, and an increased risk of falls. Since falls in older adults can have serious consequences, such as bone fractures, finding preventive and therapeutic strategies is essential. In this context, Tai Chi has been introduced as an inexpensive, non-pharmacological intervention that places minimal stress on the joints. With its slow, coordinated, and repetitive movements, Tai Chi improves balance, strengthens muscles, enhances flexibility, and reduces stress. The aim of this review study is to comprehensively examine the effects of Tai Chi on improving balance and reducing the risk of falls in older adults with knee osteoarthritis. Method: This systematic review was conducted on studies published between ۲۰۱۶ and ۲۰۲۵ using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, MAGIRAN, and Google Scholar. In this research, keywords such as “Tai Chi,” “balance,” “falls,” “older adults,” and “knee osteoarthritis” were utilized. Findings: The reviewed studies indicate that Tai Chi exercises can significantly improve balance and motor coordination in older adults with knee osteoarthritis. Several studies have reported that after a few weeks of Tai Chi practice, the error margin in balance tests decreases and the ability to maintain stable postures improves. In addition to balance improvement, a reduction in knee pain has been noted, attributed to muscle strengthening and increased flexibility. Some researchers suggest that Tai Chi increases blood flow to the joints and accelerates the healing processes in damaged tissues. Moreover, Tai Chi contributes to strengthening the leg muscles and improving the coordination between upper and lower limb movements, which in turn reduces the risk of falls. Tai Chi exercises, in addition to enhancing physical well-being, also have positive psychological effects; reductions in stress and anxiety and improvements in sleep quality are among the reported outcomes, ultimately leading to enhanced mental health and a greater sense of life satisfaction in older adults. Discussion: The results suggest that Tai Chi, as a low-pressure exercise, is suitable for older adults unable to engage in more intense activities due to knee osteoarthritis. One of the key advantages of Tai Chi is its adaptability to the needs and limitations of older adults. Unlike high-impact exercises that may cause joint damage, the gentle and controlled movements of Tai Chi help increase the range of motion and strengthen muscles without placing excessive pressure on the joints. Additionally, Tai Chi can be practiced in group settings or individually at home, which enhances accessibility for older adults seeking this therapeutic approach. However, some limitations have also been observed in the existing studies, including differences in the duration and intensity of exercises, differences in assessment criteria, and small sample sizes in some research. Therefore, further studies with rigorous clinical designs and larger sample sizes are recommended to provide conclusive evidence on the effects of Tai Chi in improving balance and reducing the risk of falls in older adults with knee osteoarthritis.

کلیدواژه ها:

Tai Chi ، balance ، falls ، older adults ، knee osteoarthritis