Tai Chi for Therapists

Ep.04 Tai Chi In A Physiotherapy Practice

In this episode we talk with Richard Leigh, a physiotherapist based in a small rural practice in Shaftesbury, Dorset, in the UK.
Richard implements tai chi and qigong movements into his private practice with a diverse range of patients.
Interview Summary
Clinical Integration Benefits:
Complements existing physiotherapy approaches
Provides better compliance compared to traditional exercises
Can be incorporated into both individual treatment and group classes
Particularly effective for complex cases with multiple pathologies
Offers a holistic approach that addresses both physical and psychological aspects
Specific Clinical Applications:
Neurodynamics
Can prove more effective than traditional nerve stretches due to:
Three-dimensional movement patterns
Integration of breathing
More flowing, less traumatic on nerves
Better compliance than standard nerve tension exercises
Postural Control & Fall Prevention:
Improves base of support
Enhances midfoot balance
Develops better spatial awareness
Particularly beneficial for stair navigation in elderly patients
Breathing exercises:
Helps mobilize shoulder joints
Improves rotator cuff function
Releases upper rib tension
Benefits neurovascular bundles
Eight Brocades sequence:
Can be introduced gradually (2 movements at a time)
Works on multiple fascial lines
Highly accepted by patients
Can be modified for different ability levels
Safety Considerations:
Very low risk compared to traditional exercises
Suitable for elderly patients (including those in their 80s)
Can be modified for seated practice
Less likely to aggravate existing conditions compared to some traditional exercises
Improved outcomes for:
Vestibular conditions
Chronic pain
Post-cancer rehabilitation
Anxiety and depression
Chronic stress
Complex musculoskeletal conditions
Implementation Tips:
Start with simple movements and progress gradually
Can be taught in both individual and group settings
Class sizes of 8-15 people are manageable
Regular practice (weekly classes) shows good results
Consider incorporating into existing treatment programs
Patient Compliance Benefits:
Higher engagement than traditional exercise programs
Patients report enjoying the movements
Can be practiced at home independently
Promotes self-efficacy and autonomy
Empowers patients in their recovery journey
In Summary
Richard demonstrates how Tai Chi and Qigong can prove valuable additions to his toolkit, offering safe, effective, and well-received interventions that complement traditional approaches while promoting patient self-management and compliance.
 
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Have you enjoyed this episode? Then you may like to rate and subscribe so that you can enjoy more podcasts as we release them.
Would you like to find out more about our class leading CPD course for health professionals: Tai Chi for Therapists.
We created this course for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice.
If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional visit our course page to find out more.
We look forward to seeing you,
Phil & Helen
Website: www.taichifortherapists.com

Ep.03 Tai Chi In A Chronic Pain Service

In this podcast we interview Carole Edin, an Occupational Therapist based in Leeds. Carole implements tai chi and qigong movements into her clinical practice with patients in a local chronic pain service.
Guest Profile
Carole Edin qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 2013 with a MSc in Occupational Therapy and Science from Leeds Beckett University. She has worked in a variety of settings but has primarily focused on pain management. She currently works in Leeds and implements simplified tai chi movements into her practice supporting patients self manage their condition.
 
Interview Summary
1. Chronic Pain Management Approach:   - Focus on self-management and self-compassion   - Emphasize pacing activities and avoiding "boom and bust" cycles   - Incorporate sleep hygiene, diet, and nutrition advice   - Address emotional well-being and stress management
2. Introduction of Tai Chi in Pain Management:   - Present Tai Chi as "enjoyable movement" rather than exercise to reduce fear-avoidance   - Start with seated movements, progressing slowly to standing   - Emphasize gentle, slow motions and individual adaptation   - Incorporate relaxation and tension-spotting techniques before and after practice
3. Benefits of Tai Chi for Chronic Pain Patients:   - Improves relaxation and stress reduction   - Enhances mobility and function   - Potential for medication reduction   - Particularly beneficial for conditions like fibromyalgia
4. Implementation Strategies:   - Tailor approaches to individual patients and their specific conditions   - Use visualization techniques for patients unable to perform physical movements   - Introduce Tai Chi gradually, emphasizing regular practice over duration   - Combine Tai Chi with other pain management strategies (described as a "jigsaw puzzle" approach)
5. Group vs. Individual Sessions:   - Adapt instructions for group settings, encouraging individual modifications   - Emphasize non-competition and personal progress
6. Practitioner Benefits:   - Potential for personal health improvements, including coordination   - Use as a self-care tool for healthcare professionals
7. Evidence-Based Practice:   - Incorporate research on Tai Chi's benefits, particularly for conditions like fibromyalgia   - Consider Tai Chi as part of a multidisciplinary approach to pain management
8. Patient-Centered Outcomes:   - Focus on improving quality of life and expanding activities despite pain   - Encourage reintroduction of enjoyable activities and socialization
9. Professional Development:   - Chronic pain management offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities   - Continuous learning due to varied patient presentations and conditions
In Summary
Health professionals should consider integrating Tai Chi as a complementary approach in chronic pain management, focusing on gradual introduction, individualisation, and combining it with other evidence-based strategies for optimal patient outcomes.
Bonus downloads kindly provided by Carole.
Listen, rate, and subscribe.
Have you enjoyed this episode? Then you may like to rate and subscribe so that you can enjoy more podcasts as we release them.
Would you like to find out more about our class leading CPD course for health professionals: Tai Chi for Therapists.
We created this course for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice.
If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional visit our course page to find out more.
We look forward to seeing you,
Phil & Helen
Website: www.taichifortherapists.com

Ep. 02: Tai Chi In A Mental Health Service

In this podcast we interview Charlotte Rondel, an Occupational Therapist based in Jersey. Charlotte implements tai chi and qigong movements into her clinical practice with patients in a primary care mental health service.
Guest Profile
Charlotte Rondel qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 2006 from Southampton University. Also a qualified fitness instructor, she finds meaningful ways to support people to be more physically active and confident in how they move in everyday activity. Charlotte has worked in a range of settings including reablement, general medical and orthopaedic inpatients, community mental health and primary care mental health.
 
Interview Summary
1. Integration of Tai Chi in Mental Health Services:
Charlotte, an occupational therapist, incorporates Tai Chi into her practice in a primary care mental health team in Jersey.She uses Tai Chi across various settings, including primary care, secondary mental health services, and inpatient wards.
2. Benefits for Patients:
Tai Chi is used to address anxiety, mood difficulties, and depression.Patients report improved mood, increased body awareness, and better relaxation.It's particularly beneficial for older adults, potentially helping with fall prevention.
3. Alignment with Occupational Therapy:
Tai Chi's holistic approach aligns well with occupational therapy principles.It emphasizes prevention and considers the interconnection of mind and body.
4. Practical Implementation:
Charlotte introduced Tai Chi gradually, starting with staff wellbeing sessions.She incorporates it into one-on-one sessions and home visits.Group sessions are conducted in various settings, including day centers and inpatient wards.
5. Outcome Measures:
A simple 1-10 mood scale is used before and after sessions to track improvements.There's flexibility in choosing appropriate outcome measures.
6. Eight Active Ingredients:
Charlotte references the "Eight Active Ingredients" model from Peter Wayne's book, The Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi.She focuses on elements like embodied spirituality, active relaxation, and intention in her sessions.
7. Challenges and Adaptations:
Dealing with varying patient speeds and interpretations of instructions.Adapting language to be trauma-informed and accessible to different patient groups.
8. Professional Development:
Importance of regular personal practice to improve confidence and skill in teaching.Continuous learning through ongoing engagement with training resources.
9. Patient-Centered Approach:
Recognizing that patients may benefit even if they don't perform movements "perfectly".Adapting to individual needs and interpretations of instructions.
10. Versatility of Tai Chi:
Can be used as both a rehabilitation tool and a wellness practice.Applicable across different age groups and mental health conditions.
In Summary:
Tai Chi can be effectively integrated into mental health services, offering a holistic approach that aligns well with occupational therapy and other health professions. It emphasizes the practical aspects of implementation, potential benefits for patients, and the importance of adaptability in clinical practice.
 
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
If you have enjoyed this episode please do subscribe for more. Please do give us a rating and a review as well.
Are you a rehabilitation professional? Then you may like to join our class leading CPD course, Tai Chi for Therapists.
Created for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice.
If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional do get in touch, we’re here to help.
Visit our course page to find out more: https://www.discovertaichi.uk/courses
Thank you for visiting, all the best,
Phil & Helen
Website: https://www.discovertaichi.uk/
 

Tai Chi In A Primary Care Service

In this podcast we interview Occupational Therapists, Vicky Jones and Liz Smith based in Leek and Biddulph Primary Care Network Occupational Therapy Service.
In 2023 they, along with their colleague, Beth Jackson-Dale, developed an early intervention service focusing on disease prevention and supporting the management of newly-diagnosed long-term mental and physical health conditions. 
They utilised both acupuncture along with tailored tai chi and qigong movements for the patient groups.
The February 2024 edition of OT News features an article about the project.
Guest Profiles
Vicky Jones qualified 2012 from Brunel University. She has worked in a range of settings including acute mental health, community dementia services, emergency medicine, community rehab, Autism services and is now working in Primary Care Occupational Therapy alongside Liz Smith.
Email: vicky.jones@staffs.nhs.uk
Liz Smith, qualified from The University of Derby in 2004.  She has worked in both acute and community settings, working in both physical and mental health areas before joining Primary Care Occupational Therapy in 2021. 
Email: elizabeth.smith@staffs.nhs.uk
 
Interview Summary
Setting up a Tai Chi service in primary care:
Occupational therapists Vicky Jones and Liz Smith established a Tai Chi project in a primary care setting in 2021.
They focused on early intervention and proactive approaches for new conditions or existing health conditions.
The project aimed to support both mental wellbeing and physical health.
Evidence-based approach:
The team gathered evidence on Tai Chi as a health intervention for various conditions, including mental health, chronic pain, and falls prevention.
They used this evidence to support their training request and protocol development.
Implementation:
Developed inclusion/exclusion criteria for participants.
Created risk assessments for the environments used.
Initially ran a 10-week project, later adjusted based on outcomes.
Provided participants with personal copies of movements for self-directed learning.
Outcome measures:
Used the MYMOP (Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile) to assess baseline symptoms and functioning, repeating at the end of the project.
https://www.meaningfulmeasures.co.uk/mymop
Collected additional feedback through surveys and verbal responses.
Patient benefits:
Improvements in pain management, balance, mental wellbeing, and overall confidence.
Reduced medication use, particularly for pain management.
Enhanced social interactions and community engagement.
Case study:
A 61-year-old man with chronic pain after significant polytrauma showed significant improvements self-reported symptoms (+ 50%), wellbeing (+ 75%), and daily activities (+ 50%) after completing the project.
Unexpected outcomes:
Participants formed social connections, continuing to meet outside of the project.
Some patients challenged their own perceptions of their capabilities such as increased sense of autonomy and self-efficacy.
Tips for implementation:
Prepare visual aids (photos, videos) of movements before starting the project.
Liaise with other practitioners using Tai Chi in their practice.
Explore various training options.
Set clear boundaries and criteria for project access.
Future developments:
Planning to create video resources for patients unable to attend in-person sessions.
Presenting at conferences to share their experiences and outcomes.
Considering publishing research on their findings.
In brief:
This project demonstrates the potential for integrating holistic, evidence-based practices into primary care settings, offering an alternative or complement to traditional medical approaches for managing chronic conditions and promoting overall wellbeing.
 
References
1. Kong, L. J. et al. Tai Chi for Chronic Pain Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Sci. Rep. 6, 25325; doi: 10.1038/srep25325 (2016).
2. Juan Pablo Castro, Marie Kierkegaard, Manuel Zeitelhofer. A Call to Use the Multicomponent Exercise Tai Chi to Improve Recovery From COVID-19 and Long COVID, 2022 Feb 28;10:827645. Collection 2022.
3. Ryan Abbott, MD, JD, MTOMa and Helen Lavretsky, MD, MSb,* Tai Chi and Qigong for the Treatment and Prevention of Mental Disorders, Southwestern Law School, 3050 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Psychiatr Clin North Am. 2013 March ; 36(1): 109–119.
4. Chenchen Wang, Jean Paul Collet, Joseph Lau. 2004 Mar 8;164(5):493-501.The effect of Tai Chi on health outcomes in patients with chronic conditions: a systematic review, Arch Intern Med, 2004.
 
Links And More
MYMOP - Measure Yourself Medical Outcomes Profile
Leek and Biddulph Primary Care Facebook Page
http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/fitness/Pages/taichi
http://www.sdhct.nhs.uk/aboutus/services/painservice/improvinghealthandfitness/4_taichi
 
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
If you’re a rehabilitation professional you may like to join our class leading course, Tai Chi for Therapists.
Tai Chi for Therapists is designed for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their practice.
If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional get in touch, we’re here to help.
Visit our course page to find out more: https://www.discovertaichi.uk/courses
Thank you for visiting, all the best,
Phil & Helen
Website: https://www.discovertaichi.uk/