Study compares the benefits of tai chi, aquatic exercise, and a self-help program for patients with knee osteoarthritis.

This study compared the benefits of tai chi, hydrotherapy and a self help group for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Fifty individuals completed the study. Both the tai chi and the hydrotherapy groups showed statistically significant improvements compared to the self-help group in a “difficulty of performing activities” measure, while the tai chi group also showed statistically significant improvements over the self-help group in knee extensor peak torque, knee flexor and stiffness measures. The authors conclude that tai chi may be more suitable than aquatic exercise in exercise programs for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. 

Abstract