Tai Chi May Help Maintain Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women

Tai Chi May Help Maintain Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women

Tai chi may be a safe alternative to traditional exercises for maintaining bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. Bone mineral density is a key indicator of bone strength. Low bone mineral density is associated with osteoporosis, a bone disease characterized by reduced bone strength that can lead to fractures, which are a major cause of disability among the elderly.

Exercise is an important component of osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Tai Chi is a practice of mind-body which originated in China as a martial art. It consists of body movements slow and gentle, while breathing deeply and meditating (tai chi is sometimes called "meditation in motion").

Peter Wayne, Ph.D., and colleagues conducted a systematic review of research on the effect of tai chi on BMD. They found that tai chi may be an effective, safe and practical intervention for maintaining BMD in postmenopausal women. They note that the evidence is preliminary because they considered the research was limited in scope and quality, but enough evidence of effectiveness exists to warrant further research.

The authors further note that the benefits of tai chi appear similar to those of traditional exercises. However, tai chi may also improve balance, reduce the frequency of falls, and increase the strength of the musculoskeletal system.
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