An ancient healing art, qigong uses a combination of arm movements, breathing exercises and mediation techniques to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. The aim of qigong is to restore the body’s flow of qi, or vital energy. According to Chinese philosophy, imbalances of qi are responsible for pain, discomfort and disease. Studies have shown qigong to be effective in improving pain, fatigue, mood and quality of life in patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome and cancer, as well as improving overall health in the elderly.
Improvement of Symptoms Associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
A 2007 study conducted by the University of Derby in England and the Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine examined the effects of qigong on patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome include severe fatigue, headaches, muscle and joint aches, cognitive impairment, mood changes and waking up not feeling refreshed. In the study, a group of British female patients learned a 10-minute qigong routine that incorporated sequential arm movements such as reaching downward, forward and over the head. After a three-month period of weekly classes, the participants continued performing the routine daily at home for an additional three months. After the full six-month period, participants reported significant improvements in energy, sleep quality, mental health and pain. Researchers concluded that regular qigong can reduce pain and improve sleep and physical functioning in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Improved Quality of Life in Cancer Patients
In 2009, a study conducted by the European Society for Medical Oncology evaluated the effects of qigong as a complementary treatment for cancer patients. The study included 162 patients suffering from various cancers. The patients participated in 10 weeks of a medical qigong routine modified to the needs of cancer patients. The practice involved 30 minutes of gentle stretching and body movement while standing to stimulate the flow of energy in the body and 15 minutes of seated postures, followed by 30 minutes of meditation. At the end of 10 weeks, patients in the medical qigong group reported improvements in quality of life, fatigue and mood, as well as less anxiety and depression when compared to the control group. Results indicate that qigong may be effective in providing short-term benefits for cancer patients, though further research is need to determine if qigong has any effect on survival rate.
Improved Physical Health in Elderly Patients
Two studies conducted by the Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine in Japan in 2008 found qigong to improve physical function in elderly women. Patients participated in a weekly 45-minute qigong exercise that included various arm movements and other body movements, plus deep breathing. The women were also asked to conduct a 20-minute daily home qigong practice. The first study included optional aerobic exercises such as swimming or walking, which were not included in the second study. Both studies significantly increased physical function, including walking speed and rising speed. Researchers concluded that qigong may be an effective means of improving physical health in the elderly, but further research is needed to determine if results can be sustained over a longer period of time.
References
- AltMD: Qigong
- PubMed Central: Qigong Ameliorates Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue: A Pilot Controlled Study
- PubMed Central: Impact of Medical Qigong on Quality of Life, Fatigue, Mood, and Inflammation in Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
- PubMed Central: Positive Effects of a Qigong and Aerobic Exercise Program on Physical Health in Elderly Japanese Women: An Exploratory Study
Member Comments