Measuring Movement Interventions

The goal of Movement You is to make the insights and benefits of Aikido practice accessible to treatment providers and patients alike. 

Tai Chi, as a martial art taught through slow and gentle movements, has been an ideal starting point for investigations into the impact of martial arts on movement disorders. One study found a 10% improvement from baseline in balance and an 18% improvement in directional control. (“For Parkinson Disease Patients, Tai Chi can improve balance and reduce falls,” Neurology Today, 5/3/2012, Richard Robinson)

The results of study by Hye-Jung Choi and Carol Garber et.al. noticed improvements were significant in participants’ mentation, mood, behavior, and motor functions! (“Therapeutic Effects of Tai Chi in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease,”ISRN Neurology, Vol 2013, Article 548240, Hye-Jung Choi, et. al.)

To ensure an understanding of treatment modalities and their impact, many scientists are looking at Tai Chi. There is a general consensus that the practice of Tai Chi improves conditions, but no consensus as to the mechanisms of its impact. For example, one study finds that the”…mechanism behind therapeutic change (caused by Tai Chi Practice) in motor control and mobility remain less understood and warrant further exploration.” (“Tai Chi and Postural Stability in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease” The New England Journal of Medicine, .Vol 366:6 February 9, 2012, Fuzhong, Li, PhD, Peter Hammer, et. al.)

In their critical review,  Zhang and Yong (et.al.) find issue with the complexity of Tai Chi and its degree of difficulty for beginners – especially the elderly. (“Effects of Tai Chi and Multimodal Exercise Training on Movement and Balance Function in Mild to Moderate Idiopathic Parkinson Disease,” American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Article No. 0894-9115/15/9410-0921, Authors Tian-Yu Zhang, BS, et. al. )

In their review of a partner-based program, authors Klein and Rivers cite lack of evidence as a reason they determined that, while the program was beneficial for the participants, it’s impact on Parkinson’s disease was inconclusive. (“Taiji for Individuals with Parkinson Disease and their Support Partners: Program Evaluation” Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy, Vol Mar 2006; 301, 1,  Penelope J Klein Pt EdD, Lynn Rivers, PT PhD)

Tai Chi as both a martial art and a therapeutic intervention for Parkinson’s disease is a wonderful approach; not to be derided or dismissed. Tai Chi has many answers and opportunities.  Our hope is to add the insights and inspirations from Aikido to the conversation of movement disorder treatments!