Introduction
This Research looked at a number of studies that examined the effects of Tai Chi on Essential Hypertension.
But what is Essential hypertension (also known as primary hypertension) ? It is high blood pressure (> 130
/80 mmHg) without a single known cause and it accounts for 85–95% of all cases of high blood pressure.
Nitric oxide (NO) is a chemical that is produced by the inner lining of blood vessels that acts as a potent vasodilator i.e. that relaxes and widens blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure. Deficiency in nitric oxide is a primary, early driver of essential hypertension.
Question(s) Investigated:
- What are the effects of Tai Chi on people with essential hypertension
- What are the mechanisms that produce the benefits.
- What is the potential of Tai Chi as a prescribed exercise for people with essential hypertension.
What the Investigators did to answer their question(s)
The researchers reviewed 32 studies. The studies measured: Diastolic Blood Pressure, Systolic Blood Pressure and nitric oxide levels.
They chose research articles that compared groups of people who were diagnosed with hypertension and were doing Tai Chi with those who were doing either aerobic exercise, drug therapy, or usual health care.
Description of Studies
- Studies spanned from 2003-2023
- Duration: 27 studies had a tai chi session of <= 60 min; 5 had sessions > 60 min.
- 28 studies used the 8-, 24- or 48-style Tai Chi (Yang Style). One study selected Chen-style Tai Chi. Two studies did not specify.
- Number of individuals overall was approximately 2024 with essential hypertension
- Average age 57.1 years
- The number of hours that the individuals practiced tai chi for the study they were in ranged from 20 to 288 hour.
What did they find
- Tai Chi (Yang 24 style) was more effective than conventional drug therapy and aerobic exercise in reducing Systolic Blood Pressure.
- Tai Chi was more effective than aerobic exercise and conventional therapy in reducing Diastolic Blood Pressure
What were some of the Limitations of this Study
- There was not enough high- quality data or enough quantity of data to determine the mechanism of Tai Chi’s impact on hypertension.
- Most studies investigated only the Yang 24 style of Tai Chi.
- There were translation challenges with the Chinese texts.
What are some of the Recommendations:
- Future exercise prescription strategies need to consider Tai Chi in combination with health education.
- Further research is needed to comprehensively understand how Tai Chi intervenes in and prevents hypertension.
Implications of this paper:
The findings suggest that 24-style Tai Chi holds clinical significance for patients,nurses and healthcare decision-makers involved in the prevention and treatment of hypertension.