A pilot study exploring the effects of a 12-week t'ai chi intervention on somatic symptoms of depression in patients with heart failure

Heartfelt Minds: Uncovering the Intricate yet Overlooked Connection Between Psychiatric Disorders and Cardiology

In recent years, there has been a notable and concerning rise in the prevalence of mental disorders, indicating a growing societal challenge that warrants attention and support for affected individuals. Psychiatric problems range on a wide spectrum from as little as work or school related stress to as big as severe depression related to the loss of a loved one, a sense of loneliness, etc. This current generation yields the highest amounts of mental disorder patients due to the newfound pressures, difficulties, and ways of life. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 5 US adults live with a mental illness and about 1 in 25 US adults live or lived with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. A similar statistic shows us that about 695,000 people in the United States in 2021 died due to some form of heart related disease. That is 1 in every 5 deaths. More recently, it has been noticed that these psychiatric disorders and heart diseases could be correlated. In this manuscript, we review the current literature on the effect and correlation of psychiatric disorders on the cardiovascular system. We present a review on primarily the "5 major psychiatric disorders," according to the NIH: depression, autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. We will also present a review on stress-induced cardiac diseases, especially more recently with the rise of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Tai Chi versus health education as a frailty intervention for community-dwelling older adults with hypertension

BACKGROUND

Frailty is associated with poor outcomes among older adults with hypertension and complicates its pharmacological management. Here, we assessed whether 12-weeks of instructor-guided, group Tai Chi (TC) practice improved frailty relative to Healthy Aging Practice-centered Education (HAP-E) classes in older adults with hypertension.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial in San Diego County, USA, of 167 community-dwelling individuals aged ≥ 60 yrs (70% female; 72.1 ± 7.5 yrs), defined as non-frail (66%) or frail (34%) based on 53-item deficit accumulation frailty index (FI). Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess pre-to-post intervention differences in FI and logistic regression to explore differential odds of clinically meaningful FI change.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-one participants completed post-intervention assessments. Frailty decreased pre-to-post intervention in the TC (ΔFI = - 0.016, d = - 0.39, - 0.75 to - 0.03), but not the HAP-E arm (ΔFI = - 0.009, d = - 0.13, - 0.52-0.27), despite no significant group differences between the TC and HAP-E arms (d = - 0.11, - 0.46-0.23). Furthermore, greater odds of improved FI were observed for frail participants in the TC (OR = 3.84, 1.14-14.9), but not the HAP-E (OR = 1.34, 0.39-4.56) arm. Subgroup analysis indicated treatment effects in TC were attributed to frail participants (frail: ΔFI = - 0.035, d = - 0.68, -1.26 to - 0.08; non-frail: ΔFI = - 0.005, d = - 0.19, - 0.59-0.22), which was not the case in the HAP-E arm (frail: ΔFI = - 0.017, d = - 0.23, - 0.81-0.35; non-frail: ΔFI = - 0.003, d = - 0.07, - 0.47-0.33). Frail participants were no more likely to drop-out of the study than non-frail (71% vs. 69% retained).

CONCLUSIONS

Twelve weeks of twice-weekly guided TC practice was well-tolerated, associated with decreases in frailty, and increased odds of clinically meaningful FI improvement at post-intervention.

Tai chi or health education for older adults with hypertension: effects on mental health and psychological resilience to COVID-19

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of 12 weeks of community-based, in-person, group Tai Chi (TC) and Health Education (HAP-E) in improving health and wellbeing in older adults with hypertension and in promoting psychological resilience during COVID-19.

METHODS

A 12-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) in San Diego County, USA. Self-reported depressive symptoms, anxiety, sleep disturbances, gratitude, resilience, mental and physical health were assessed in-person pre- and post-intervention, and by long-term follow-up surveys during COVID-19. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess study arm differences over time and logistic regression to identify predictors of positive intervention response.

RESULTS

Of 182 randomized participants (72.6 ± 7.9 yrs; 72% female), 131 completed the intervention. Modest improvements in health and wellbeing occurred post-intervention in both arms (Cohen's d: TC = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.25-0.51; HAP-E = 0.24, 0.11-0.37), though positive intervention responses were more than twice as likely in TC (OR = 2.29, 1.07-4.57). Younger age, higher anxiety, and poorer mental health at baseline predicted greater odds of response. Small declines in health and wellbeing were reported at the first COVID-19 follow-up, with smaller declines in the TC arm (Cohen's d: TC = -0.15, -0.31-0.00; HAP-E = -0.34, -0.49 to -0.19). Health and wellbeing stabilized at the second COVID-19 follow-up. Most participants (>70%) reported that the interventions benefitted their health and wellbeing during COVID-19.

CONCLUSION

TC and HAP-E improved health and wellbeing, though TC conferred greater odds of an improved mental health response. Declines in health and wellbeing were observed at pandemic follow-up, with smaller declines in the TC arm, suggesting increased resilience.

Tai Chi Exercise for Mental and Physical Well-Being in Patients with Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Tai Chi is a mindfulness-body practice that has physiological and psychosocial benefits and can be integrated into the prevention and rehabilitation of various medical conditions; however, the effectiveness of Tai Chi in the treatment of depression remains unclear. This review aimed to determine the effects of Tai Chi exercise on mental and physical well-being in patients with depressive symptoms. We searched databases for English language publications that appeared during January 2000-2022. The included trials were RCTs that involved people with depression with no other medical conditions, and included both adolescent and adult samples. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model and the heterogeneity was estimated using I2 statistics. The quality of each trial was assessed according to the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. The eight trials were divided into two comparisons: (1) a combination of Tai Chi and antidepressants versus standard antidepressants; (2) Tai Chi versus no intervention. The Tai Chi intervention showed improvements in mental and physical well-being as evidenced by the reductions in depression and anxiety and improved quality of life (QOL) of the patients with depressive symptoms. Further well-controlled RCTs are recommended with a precision trial design and larger sample sizes.

Complementary and Alternative Medicines in the Management of Heart Failure: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) are commonly used across the world by diverse populations and ethnicities but remain largely unregulated. Although many CAM agents are purported to be efficacious and safe by the public, clinical evidence supporting the use of CAM in heart failure remains limited and controversial. Furthermore, health care professionals rarely inquire or document use of CAM as part of the medical record, and patients infrequently disclose their use without further prompting. The goal of this scientific statement is to summarize published efficacy and safety data for CAM and adjunctive interventional wellness approaches in heart failure. Furthermore, other important considerations such as adverse effects and drug interactions that could influence the safety of patients with heart failure are reviewed and discussed.

Effectiveness of Tai Chi on older adults: A systematic review of systematic reviews with re-meta-analysis

This overview study examined and synthesized the effect of Tai Chi (TC) on the physical conditions, psychological conditions, cognitive abilities, and quality of life (QoL) of older adults. This study was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 statement. Using Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Methodology Register, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, English-language systematic reviews (SRs) published within the latest decade (2010-2020) were included. SRs with meta-analysis were selected if TC was the examined intervention and older adults was the targeted population. A total of 16 SRs covering 89 original studies were included. A number of the pooled results of the included SRs were inconclusive. Taking into consideration of the new meta-analyses of this study, TC significantly improved most outcomes, including the mobility, pain level, physical function, psychological distress, depressive symptoms, anxiety, global cognitive function, mental speed and attention, learning ability, verbal fluency, executive function, and QoL of older adults. TC can be an effective intervention for older adults for improving physical and psychological conditions, cognitive abilities, and QoL. Additional high-quality studies with larger samples investigating the effectiveness of TC in older adults are warranted.

Tai Chi for anxiety and depression symptoms in cancer, stroke, heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Many middle-aged and older adults have more than one chronic health condition. It is therefore important to explore the effectiveness of interventions for multiple chronic conditions. Tai Chi is widely used in China and other countries, and many studies have examined the effect of Tai Chi on anxiety and depression. However, there are no systematic reviews of the effect of Tai Chi on anxiety and depression in various chronic conditions. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of Tai Chi on anxiety and depression symptoms in four chronic conditions: cancer, stroke, heart failure (HF), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

METHODS

We searched Chinese and English databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), Wanfang Database, and Sinomed) from inception to October 2020. Review Manager version 5.2 and Stata version 12.0 were used to perform a systematic review. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The study was registered with the PROSPERO database (number CRD42020209594).

RESULTS

Of the 596 studies identified, we included 25 randomized controlled trials involving 1819 participants. Combined analysis of the four diseases showed statistically significant differences between the Tai Chi and control groups for anxiety symptoms (SMD -0.99, 95%CI: -1.5, -0.47; P < 0.01) and depressive symptoms (SMD 0.70, 95%CI: -1.01, -0.39; P < 0.01). Subgroup analyses showed statistically significant differences between the Tai Chi and control groups for depressive symptoms in stroke (SMD -0.43, 95%CI: -0.67, -0.18; P < 0.01) and HF (SMD -0.57, 95%CI: -0.8, -0.33; P < 0.01). However, no statistically significant differences were found for depressive symptoms in COPD or cancer. There were statistically significant differences between the Tai Chi and control groups for anxiety symptoms in stroke (SMD -0.60, 95%CI: -0.88, -0.32; P < 0.01) and cancer (SMD -0.69, 95%CI: -1.22, -0.17; P < 0.01), but not in COPD or HF. Subgroup, sensitivity, meta regression, and publication bias analyses showed high heterogeneity correlated with a single study and study quality. Sensitivity analysis showed that most meta-analysis results had good stability, but those for anxiety symptoms in COPD were unstable; therefore, careful interpretation is required.

CONCLUSION

Tai Chi has a positive effect on anxiety and depression, especially for patients with cancer, stroke, and HF. However, given the weak evidence, this approach is not a substitute for psychiatric treatment.

TaiChi and Qigong for Depressive Symptoms in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

Background

Depression is a debilitating comorbidity of heart failure (HF) that needs assessment and management. Along with mind-body exercise to deal with HF with depression, the use of TaiChi and/or Qigong practices (TQPs) has increased. Therefore, this systematic review assesses the effects of TQPs on depression among patients with HF.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effect of TQPs on depression in patients with HF were searched by five databases (PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), EMBASE, CINAHL, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI)). With standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), random-effects meta-analyses of the effect of TQPs on depressive symptoms were performed.

Results

Of eight included RCTs, seven (481 patients) provided data for the meta-analysis. The pooling revealed that TQPs contribute to depression remission in HF (SMD -0.66; 95% CI -0.98 to -0.33, P < 0.0001; I ² = 64%). Its antidepressive effect was not influenced by intervention duration or exercise setting, but rather by ejection fraction subtype, depressive severity, and depression instruments. The beneficial effects were preserved when the study with the largest effect was removed.

Conclusion

This study suggests that TQPs might be a good strategy for alleviating depressive symptoms in patients with HF. And rigorous-design RCTs, which focus on the identified research gaps, are needed to further establish the therapeutic effects of TQPs for depression in HF.

Tai Chi and Qigong Practices for Chronic Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have assessed the role of Tai Chi and Qigong Practices (TQPs) in managing chronic heart failure (CHF). They have included broad variations in comparators, sample sizes, and results. This study evaluates existing RCTs for evidence of TQPs rehabilitation effects for CHF.

Methods

Both English and Chinese databases were searched from their inception to October 23, 2019. RCTs were included if they compared the addition of TQPs into routine managements (RMs) to RMs alone or compared TQPs to general exercise, with RMs as a consistent cointervention in both groups. Data were screened and extracted independently using predesigned forms. RCT quality was assessed with the Cochrane tool. The primary outcomes were peak oxygen consumption (VO_2peak), 6-minute walking distance (6MWD), and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). Mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and heterogeneity was assessed with an I ² statistic.

Results

A total of 33 RCTs with 2,465 patients were included in the systematic review. Compared to the RMs alone, TQPs plus RMs improved VO_2peak (MD: 1.24 mL/kg/min, 95% CI, 0.91 to 1.57; I ² = 0%), 6MWD (MD: 59.63 meters, 95% CI, 43.35 to 75.90 I ² = 88%), and MLHFQ (MD: -8.63 scores; 95% CI, -10.60 to -6.67; I ² = 94%). Compared to general exercise, superior improvements were found in the TQP group; they were significant in MLHFQ (MD: -9.18 scores; 95% CI, -17.95 to -0.41; I ² = 86%), but not in VO_2peak or 6MWD. Evidence was also found of TQPs' safety and high adherence.

Conclusions

Considering that there are low costs, multiple physical benefits, and no equipment required, TQPs are a promising rehabilitation therapy, as an adjunct to routine pharmacotherapies or as an alternative to conventional exercises, especially in home-based settings.

Exploring correlates of improved depression symptoms and quality of life following tai chi exercise for patients with heart failure

AIMS

Tai chi exercise has been shown in a prior randomized controlled trial to improve depression symptoms and quality of life (QoL) in patients with heart failure (HF), but correlates of these improvements are not well known. The purpose of this secondary analysis was to explore whether tai chi is associated with improvements in biopsychosocial and behavioural measures and whether such improvements are correlated with improved depression and QoL.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Participants were n = 100 adults with chronic systolic HF (mean age = 67.4, SD = 12.0; 64% male; 96% White; New York Heart Association class = 1-3) randomized to a 12 week tai chi exercise intervention or health education control. Constructs of interest included social support, exercise self-efficacy, activity engagement, sense of coherence, and inflammatory biomarkers. Tai chi was associated with increased everyday activity engagement compared with the health education group (P < 0.05), but there were no group differences in social support or sense of coherence. Among tai chi participants, improved self-efficacy was correlated with QoL (r = 31, P = 0.05), and there was a trend toward improved depression symptoms and social support (r = -0.22, P = 0.13). Among all participants, controlling for intervention group, improved sense of coherence, and inflammation (C-reactive protein) were associated with improved depression symptoms, and improved self-efficacy, sense of coherence, and frequency of activity engagement were associated with improved QoL.

CONCLUSIONS

Tai chi exercise promotes inter-related psychosocial improvements for patients with HF. A range of biopsychosocial and behavioural variables are relevant to mood management in patients with HF.

A Randomized Study Examining the Effects of Mild-to-Moderate Group Exercises on Cardiovascular, Physical, and Psychological Well-being in Patients With Heart Failure

PURPOSE

To compare 2 mild-to-moderate group exercises and treatment as usual (TAU) for improvements in physical function and depressive symptoms.

METHODS

Patients with heart failure (n = 70, mean age = 66 yr, range = 45-89 yr) were randomized to 16 wk of tai chi (TC), resistance band (RB) exercise, or TAU.

RESULTS

Physical function differed by group from baseline to follow-up, measured by distance walked in the 6-min walk test (F = 3.19, P = .03). Tai chi participants demonstrated a nonsignificant decrease of 162 ft (95% confidence interval [CI], 21 to -345, P = .08) while distance walked by RB participants remained stable with a nonsignificant increase of 70 ft (95% CI, 267 to -127, P = .48). Treatment as usual group significantly decreased by 205 ft (95% CI, -35 to -374, P = .02) and no group differences occurred over time in end-systolic volume (P = .43) and left ventricular function (LVEF) (P = .67). However, groups differed over time in the Beck Depression Inventory (F = 9.2, P < .01). Both TC and RB groups improved (decreased) by 3.5 points (95% CI, 2-5, P < .01). Treatment as usual group decreased insignificantly 1 point (95% CI, -1 to 3, P = .27).

CONCLUSIONS

Tai chi and RB participants avoided a decrease in physical function decrements as seen with TAU. No groups changed in cardiac function. Both TC and RB groups saw reduced depression symptoms compared with TAU. Thus, both TC and RB groups avoided a decrease in physical function and improved their psychological function when compared with TAU.

Tai Chi exercise for psychological well-being among adults with cardiovascular disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background:

Regular exercise is beneficial for adults with cardiovascular disease to improve psychological well-being. Tai Chi is a mind–body exercise thought to promote psychological well-being.

Aim:

Examine the efficacy of Tai Chi in improving psychological well-being among persons with cardiovascular disease.

Methods:

An electronic literature search of 10 databases (AMED, CINAHL, Embase, OpenGrey, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) was conducted. Clinical trials that examined one or more aspect of psychological well-being, incorporated a Tai Chi intervention among cardiovascular disease participants, and were published in English or German languages were included. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 2.0 software (Biostat, Inc.) was used to calculate the effect sizes (i.e. Hedges’ g) and the 95% confidence intervals using random effects models.

Results:

A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria, enrolling 1853 participants (mean age = 66 years old, 44% women). Outcomes included: quality of life (QOL), stress, anxiety, depression, and psychological distress. When Tai Chi was compared with controls, significantly better general QOL (Hedges’ g 0.96; p=0.02, I2=94.99%), mental health QOL (Hedges’ g=0.20; p=0.01, I2=15.93) and physical health QOL (Hedges’ g=0.40; p=0.00, I2=0%); with less depression (Hedges’ g=0.69; p=0.00, I2=86.64%) and psychological distress (Hedges’ g=0.58; p=0.00, I2=0%) were found.

Conclusions:

Few Tai Chi studies have been conducted during the past decade examining psychological well-being among older adults with cardiovascular disease. Further research is needed with more rigorous study designs, adequate Tai Chi exercise doses, and carefully chosen outcome measures that assess the mechanisms as well as the effects of Tai Chi.

Benefits of Tai Chi Exercise Among Adults With Chronic Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation is safe and effective for adults with chronic heart failure (CHF), yet services are greatly underutilized. However, tai chi is a popular and safe form of exercise among older adults with chronic health conditions.

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to examine the benefits of tai chi exercise among persons with CHF.

METHODS

An electronic literature search of 10 databases (Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, OpenGrey, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) was conducted from January 1, 2004, to August 1, 2019. Clinical trials that examined tai chi exercise, were published in English or German languages, and conducted among participants with CHF were included. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 2.0 software (Biostat, Inc) was used to calculate effect sizes (ie, Hedges g) and 95% confidence intervals using random effects models.

RESULTS

A total of 6 studies met the inclusion criteria, enrolling 229 participants (mean age, 68 years; 28% women; mean ejection fraction = 37%). At least 3 studies reported outcomes for exercise capacity (n = 5 studies), quality of life (n = 5 studies), depression (n = 4 studies), and b-type natriuretic peptide (n = 4 studies), allowing for meta-analysis. Compared with controls, tai chi participants had significantly better exercise capacity (g = 0.353; P = .026, I = 32.72%), improved quality of life (g = 0.617; P = .000, I = 0%), with less depression (g = 0.627; P = .000, I = 0%), and decreased b-type natriuretic peptide expression (g = 0.333; P = .016, I = 0%).

CONCLUSION

Tai chi can be easily integrated into existing cardiac rehabilitation programs. Further research is needed with rigorous study designs and larger samples before widespread recommendations can be made.

Depression in Heart Failure: A Systematic Review

Objective: This paper sought to identify the instruments used to measure depression in heart failure (HF) and elucidate the impact of treatment interventions on depression in HF. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines were followed. Studies published from 1988 to 2018 covering depression and HF were identified through the review of the PubMed and PsycINFO databases using the keywords: "depres*" AND "heart failure." Two authors independently conducted a focused analysis, identifying 27 studies that met the specific selection criteria and passed the study quality checks. Results: Patient-reported questionnaires were more commonly adopted than clinician-rated questionnaires, including the Beck Depression Inventory, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Six common interventions were observed: antidepressant medications, collaborative care, psychotherapy, exercise, education, and other nonpharmacological interventions. Except for paroxetine, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors failed to show a significant difference from placebo. However, the collaborative care model including the use of antidepressants showed a significant decrease in PHQ-9 score after one year. All of the psychotherapy studies included a variation of cognitive behavioral therapy and patients showed significant improvements. The evidence was mixed for exercise, education, and other nonpharmacological interventions. Conclusion: This study suggests which types of interventions are more effective in addressing depression in heart failure patients.

Depressive symptoms in asymptomatic stage B heart failure with Type II diabetic mellitus

BACKGROUND

The presence of concomitant Type II diabetic mellitus (T2DM) and depressive symptoms adversely affects individuals with symptomatic heart failure (HF).

HYPOTHESIS

In presymptomatic stage B HF, this study hypothesized the presence of greater inflammation and depressive symptoms in T2DM as compared to non-T2DM Stage B patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study examined clinical parameters, inflammatory biomarkers, and depressive symptoms in 349 T2DM and non-T2DM men with asymptomatic stage B HF (mean age 66.4 years ±10.1; range 30-91).

RESULTS

Fewer diabetic HF patients had left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction (P < .05) although more had LV diastolic dysfunction (P < .001). A higher percentage of T2DM HF patients were taking ACE-inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, statins, and diuretics (P values < .05). T2DM HF patients had higher circulating levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) (P < .01), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (P < .01), and soluble ST2 (sST2) (P < .01) and reported more somatic/affective depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory II) (P < .05) but not cognitive/affective depressive symptoms (P = .20). Among all patients, in a multiple regression analysis predicting presence of somatic/affective depressive symptoms, sST2 (P = .026), IL-6 (P = .010), B-type natriuretic peptide (P = .016), and sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [P < .001]) were significant predictors (overall model F = 15.39, P < .001, adjusted R2 = .207).

CONCLUSIONS

Somatic/affective but not cognitive/affective depressive symptoms are elevated in asymptomatic HF patients with T2DM patients. Linkages with elevated inflammatory and cardiac relevant biomarkers suggest shared pathophysiological mechanisms among T2DM HF patients with somatic depression, and these conditions are responsive to routine interventions, including behavioral. Copyright © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Treating Depression With Tai Chi: State of the Art and Future Perspectives

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses in America. Current treatments for MDD are unsatisfactory given high non-response rates, high relapse rates, and undesirable side effects. Accumulating evidence suggests that Tai Chi, a popular mind-body intervention that originated as a martial art, can significantly regulate emotion and relieve the symptoms of mood disorders. In addition, the availability of instructional videos and the development of more simplified and less structured Tai Chi has made it a promising low-intensity mind-body exercise. In this article, we first examine a number of clinical trials that implemented Tai Chi as a treatment for depression. Then, we explore several mechanisms by which Tai Chi may alleviate depressive symptoms, hypothesizing that the intervention may modulate the activity and connectivity of key brain regions involved in mood regulation, reduce neuro-inflammatory sensitization, modulate the autonomic nervous system, and regulate hippocampal neurogenesis. Finally, we discuss common challenges of the intervention and possible ways to address them. Specifically, we pose developing a simplified and tailored Tai Chi protocol for patients with depression, comparatively investigating Tai Chi with other mind-body interventions such as yoga and Baduanjin, and developing new mind-body interventions that merge the advantages of multiple mind-body exercises.

Effects of Tai Chi-based cardiac rehabilitation on aerobic endurance, psychosocial well-being, and cardiovascular risk reduction among patients with coronary heart disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Tai Chi is an attractive exercise to improve cardiovascular health. This review aimed to synthesize articles written both in Chinese and in English to evaluate the effects of Tai Chi-based cardiac rehabilitation on aerobic endurance, psychosocial well-being and cardiovascular diseases risk reduction for coronary heart diseases patients.

METHODS

PRISMA guidelines were used to search major health databases to identify randomized controlled trials or non-randomized controlled clinical trials that evaluated Tai Chi intervention compared with active or non-active control groups in coronary heart disease patients. When suitable, data were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis model.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Tai Chi groups showed a large and significant improvement in aerobic endurance compared with both active and non-active control interventions (standard mean difference (SMD) 1.12; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58-1.66; p <0.001). Tai Chi groups also showed a significantly lower level of anxiety (SMD=9.28; CI: 17.46-1.10; p=0.03) and depression (SMD=9.42; CI: 13.59-5.26; p <0.001), and significantly better quality of life (SMD=0.73; 95% CI: 0.39-1.08; p <0.001) compared with non-active control groups.

CONCLUSION

Significant effects of Tai Chi have been found in improving aerobic endurance and psychosocial well-being among coronary heart disease patients. Tai Chi could be a cost-effective and safe exercise option in cardiac rehabilitation. However, the effect of Tai Chi on cardiovascular disease risk reduction has not been amply investigated among coronary heart disease patients. Caution is also warranted in view of a small number of studies for this meta-analysis and potential heterogeneity in differences in the varied designs of Tai Chi intervention.

Mind-Body Interventions for Individuals With Heart Failure: A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials

BACKGROUND

The effects of mind-body interventions (MBIs) (eg, Tai Chi, yoga, meditation) for individuals with heart failure (HF) have not been systematically evaluated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effects of MBIs in HF. We extracted participant characteristics, MBI procedure, outcomes assessed, and main results of English-language RCTs before October 2016. We identified 24 RCTs (n = 1314 participants) of 9 MBI types: Tai Chi (n = 7), yoga (n = 4), relaxation (n = 4), meditation (n = 2), acupuncture (n = 2), biofeedback (n = 2), stress management (n = 1), Pilates (n = 1), and reflexology (n = 1). Most (n = 22, 95.8%) reported small-to-moderate improvements in quality of life (14/14 studies), exercise capacity (8/9 studies), depression (5/5 studies), anxiety and fatigue (4/4 studies), blood pressure (3/5 studies), heart rate (5/6 studies), heart rate variability (7/9 studies), and B-type natriuretic peptide (3/4 studies). Studies ranged from 4 minutes to 26 weeks and group sizes ranged from 8 to 65 patients per study arm.

CONCLUSIONS

Although wide variability exists in the types and delivery, RCTs of MBIs have demonstrated small-to-moderate positive effects on HF patients' objective and subjective outcomes. Future research should examine the mechanisms by which different MBIs exert their effects.

Does Tai Chi relieve fatigue? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is not only a familiar symptom in our daily lives, but also a common ailment that affects all of our bodily systems. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have proven Tai Chi to be beneficial for patients suffering from fatigue, however conclusive evidence is still lacking. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed on all RCTs reporting the effects of Tai Chi for fatigue.

METHODS

In the end of April 2016, seven electronic databases were searched for RCTs involving Tai Chi for fatigue. The search terms mainly included Tai Chi, Tai-ji, Taiji, fatigue, tiredness, weary, weak, and the search was conducted without language restrictions. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. Publication bias was estimated with a funnel plot and Egger's test. We also assessed the quality of evidence with the GRADE system.

RESULTS

Ten trials (n = 689) were included, and there was a high risk of bias in the blinding. Two trials were determined to have had low methodological quality. Tai Chi was found to have improved fatigue more than conventional therapy (standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.45, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.70, -0.20) overall, and have positive effects in cancer-related fatigue (SMD:-0.38, 95% CI: -0.65, -0.11). Tai Chi was also more effective on vitality (SMD: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.20, 1.07), sleep (SMD: -0.32, 95% CI: -0.61, -0.04) and depression (SMD: -0.58, 95% CI: -1.04, -0.11). However, no significant difference was found in multiple sclerosis-related fatigue (SMD: -0.77, 95% CI: -1.76, 0.22) and age-related fatigue (SMD: -0.77, 95% CI: -1.78, 0.24). No adverse events were reported among the included studies. The quality of evidence was moderate in the GRADE system.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that Tai Chi could be an effective alternative and /or complementary approach to existing therapies for people with fatigue. However, the quality of the evidence was only moderate and may have the potential for bias. There is still absence of adverse events data to evaluate the safety of Tai Chi. Further multi-center RCTs with large sample sizes and high methodological quality, especially carefully blinded design, should be conducted in future research.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD42016033066.

A systematic scoping review of complementary and alternative medicine mind and body practices to improve the health of veterans and military personnel

BACKGROUND

Meditation, imagery, acupuncture, and yoga are the most frequently offered mind and body practices in the Department of Veterans Affairs. Yet, the research on mind and body practices has been critiqued as being too limited in evidence and scope to inform clinical treatment.

OBJECTIVES

We conducted a systematic scoping review of mind and body practices used with veterans or active duty military personnel to identify gaps in the literature and make recommendations for future primary research.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Following systematic literature review methodology, we searched 5 databases using 27 different National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine-defined mind and body practices as text words, keywords, and MeSH terms through June 30, 2014. We also conducted handsearches of 4 previous reviews.

SUBJECTS

Active duty military members or veterans 18 years or older participating in mind and body practice interventions globally.

MEASURES

Data were extracted from studies meeting 5 inclusion criteria. The quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was assessed using an existing checklist.

RESULTS

Of 1819 studies identified, 89 interventions (50 RCTs) published between 1976 and 2014, conducted in 9 countries, using 152 different measures to assess 65 health and well-being outcomes met our inclusion criteria. Most interventions took place in the United States (n=78). Meditation practices (n=25), relaxation techniques including imagery (n=20), spinal manipulation including physical therapy (n=16), and acupuncture (n=11) were the most frequently studied practices. Methodological quality of most RCTs was rated poorly.

CONCLUSIONS

Meditation and acupuncture practices are among the most frequently offered and studied mind and body practices. Future research should include yoga as it is currently understudied among veterans and military personnel. A repository of mind and body intervention outcome measures may further future research efforts, as would conducting pragmatic trials and more robust RCTs.

The effects of tai chi on depression, anxiety, and psychological well-being: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Tai chi, also called taiji or tai chi chuan, is a form of mind-body exercise that originated from China. It combines Chinese martial arts and meditative movements that promote balance and healing of the mind and body, involving a series of slowly performed, dance-like postures that flow into one another. As it comprises mental concentration, physical balance, muscle relaxation, and relaxed breathing, tai chi shows great potential for becoming widely integrated into the prevention and rehabilitation of a number of medical and psychological conditions.

PURPOSE

A growing body of clinical research has begun to evaluate the efficacy of tai chi as a therapy for a variety of health issues. A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental (Q-E) trials that studied the effects of tai chi on psychological well-being.

METHOD

Drawn from English and Chinese databases, 37 RCTs and 5 Q-E studies published up to May 31, 2013 were included in the systematic review. The methodological quality of the RCTs was evaluated based on the following criteria: adequate sequence generation, allocation concealment, blinding, completeness of outcome data, selective reporting, and other potential biases. Statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager version 5.0.

RESULTS

The studies in this review demonstrated that tai chi interventions have beneficial effects for various populations on a range of psychological well-being measures, including depression, anxiety, general stress management, and exercise self-efficacy. Meta-analysis was performed on three RCTs that used depression as an outcome measure (ES=-5.97; 95% CI -7.06 to -4.87), with I2=0%.

CONCLUSION

In spite of the positive outcomes, the studies to date generally had significant methodological limitations. More RCTs with rigorous research design are needed to establish the efficacy of tai chi in improving psychological well-being and its potential to be used in interventions for populations with various clinical conditions.

Tai chi chuan exercise for patients with cardiovascular disease

Exercise training is the cornerstone of rehabilitation for patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although high-intensity exercise has significant cardiovascular benefits, light-to-moderate intensity aerobic exercise also offers health benefits. With lower-intensity workouts, patients may be able to exercise for longer periods of time and increase the acceptance of exercise, particularly in unfit and elderly patients. Tai Chi Chuan (Tai Chi) is a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise. The exercise intensity of Tai Chi is light to moderate, depending on its training style, posture, and duration. Previous research has shown that Tai Chi enhances aerobic capacity, muscular strength, balance, and psychological well-being. Additionally, Tai Chi training has significant benefits for common cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, poor exercise capacity, endothelial dysfunction, and depression. Tai Chi is safe and effective in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery, congestive heart failure (HF), and stroke. In conclusion, Tai Chi has significant benefits to patients with cardiovascular disease, and it may be prescribed as an alternative exercise program for selected patients with CVD.