A Position Statement – Tai Chi for Arthritis
Dr Paul Lam
Anyone who is involved in teaching or practising Tai Chi for Arthritis should avoid the final stage of martial art application training.
Tai
Chi for Arthritis is an easy to learn, safe and effective program. The goal
of the program is primarily to relieve pain and improve the quality of life
for people with arthritis. Second, it will improve almost all other aspects
of health for people with or without arthritis. High risk of injury is not consistent
with our goals.
Anyone who is involved in teaching or practising Tai Chi for Arthritis should avoid the final stage of martial art application. Understanding the essential principles is important; visualisation should be used for practice. Sparing, push hands, or training of fast force-delivering movements are not appropriate. Demonstrating the intention of a movement should not be done with physical contact to avoid possibility of injury. Students or instructors who wish to pursue these endeavours should do so outside the area of this program.