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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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