Date of Award
2001
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)
Department
Physical Therapy
First Advisor
Beverly Johnson
Keywords
Blood Pressure; Postural Balance; Martial Arts
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to determine if rai Chi Chih could be beneficial in a therapeutic setting. More specifically, if balance and blood pressure could be improved in healthy young adults ages 20-39 after a six week rai Chi Chih program. rai Chi Chih is a shorter form of the ancient martial art rai Chi Chuan.
Two research groups were formed consisting of a rai Chi Chih group (n=11) and a walking group (n=7). Each group participated in one hour of either walking or rai Chi Chih three times a week for six weeks. Participants were tested before and after intervention. Measurements tested included single-leg stance time, functional reach, rhythmic weight shift utilizing the Neurocom® Balance Master, and blood pressure via a standardized blood pressure machine.
Statistical analysis revealed a significant (p<.05) decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure for the rai Chi Chih practitioners. Mean velocity of rhythmic shift left to right was also improved (p=.078) but not enough to deam significance. These findings support the use of rai Chi Chih as a therapeutic modality for patients with high blood pressure in conjunction with traditional treatment methods.
Recommended Citation
Baumgartner, Jennifer, "The Effect of Tʻai Chi Chih on Balance and Blood Pressure" (2001). Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects. 36.
https://commons.und.edu/pt-grad/36
