Abstract
Objective
To summarize and critically evaluate the effects of Tai Chi on lower limb proprioception
in adults older than 55.
Data Sources
Seven databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Library, Wanfang,
CNKI) were searched from inception until April 14, 2018.
Study Selection
Eleven randomized controlled trials were included for meta-analysis.
Data Extraction
Two independent reviewers screened potentially relevant studies based on the inclusion
criteria, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality of the eligible studies
using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro).
Data Synthesis
The pooled effect size (standardized mean difference [SMD]) was calculated while the
random-effects model was selected. Physiotherapy Evidence Database scores ranged from
5 to 8 points (mean=6.7). The study results showed that Tai Chi had significantly
positive effects on lower limb joint proprioception. Effect sizes were moderate to
large, including ankle plantar flexion (SMD=−0.55; 95% confidence interval [95% CI],
−0.9 to −0.2; P=.002; I2=0%; n=162), dorsiflexion (SMD=−0.75; 95% CI, −1.11 to −0.39; P<.001; I2=0%; n=162), nondominant or left knee flexion (SMD=−0.71; 95% CI, −1.10 to −0.41;
P<.001; I2=25.1%; n=266), dominant or right knee flexion (SMD=−0.82; 95% CI, −1.06 to −0.58;
P<.001; I2=33.8%; n=464).
Conclusions
There is moderate to strong evidence that suggests that Tai Chi is an effective intervention
to maintain and improve lower limb proprioception in adults older than 55. More robust
multicenter studies including oldest-old participants, with longer follow-ups and
validated outcome measures, are needed before a definitive conclusion is drawn.
Keywords
List of abbreviations:
95% CI (95% confidence interval), DF (dorsiflexion), PF (plantar flexion), RCT (randomized controlled trial), SMD (standardized mean difference), TTDPM (threshold to detection of passive motion)To read this article in full you will need to make a payment
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: August 17, 2018
Footnotes
Supported by the Shuguang Program (Shanghai Education Development Foundation and Shanghai Municipal Education Commission) (grant no. 16SG45) and the Program for Professor of Special Appointment (Eastern Scholar) at Shanghai Institutions of Higher Learning.
Disclosures: none.
Identification
Copyright
© 2018 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine
