reducing symptoms in COPD,” study lead researcher Michael Polkey explained in a journal news release.
“We do recommend pulmonary rehabilitation, but our study shows that tai chi is a viable alternative when there is no local [such] service” available, said Polkey, who works at the Respiratory Biomedical Research Unit at The Royal
Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, in London.
Dr. Alan Mensch is a pulmonologist and senior vice-president of medical affairs at Plainview and Syosset Hospitals in Long Island, N.Y. He noted that while COPD is progressive and incurable, “the treatment goal for COPD patients is to increase their level of function while decreasing their symptoms.”
Mensch said that pulmonary rehabilitation is ideal, however, many patients find it tough to stick to, so alternatives such as tai chi are welcome.
Noting that the tai chi study showed “significant improvement” in COPD symptoms, Mensch believes the practice may be “equally as effective as pulmonary rehabilitation in improving patients’ physical sense of well-being, as well as functional ability.”
And, he added that “tai chi does not require a visit to a gym or training center and requires no equipment, making it more attractive for patients to continue to practice following formal training.”
Have COPD? Learn more about the condition on our Health Conditions tab on BlackDoctor.org.
SOURCES: Irene Galperin, M.D., pulmonologist and director, Pleural Center, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City; Alan Mensch M.D., pulmonologist and senior vice president, medical affairs, Plainview and Syosset Hospitals, Long Island, N.Y.; Chest, news release, April 4, 2018