Research Area
Efficacy of yoga, tai chi and qi gong
Research Title
Efficacy of yoga, tai chi and qi gong on the main symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review
Introduction
The World Health Organization estimated that Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) caused 3 million deaths in the world in 2015 and was responsible for about 5% of global disability–adjusted life years [1]. COPD is an irreversible lung disease characterized by impaired health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in relationship to dyspnea, anxiety, depression and reduced functional exercise capacity [2]. Therefore, optimizing HRQOL and dyspnea is a cornerstone of the treatment in these patients.
Abstract
The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the effects of yoga, qi gong or tai chi in COPD patients. Studies evaluating effects of the selected complementary therapies on lung function, dyspnea, quality of life or functional exercise capacity in COPD patients were identified and reviewed from three databases.
Conclusion
This systematic review highlights the potential of these therapies as complementary therapeutic approach in COPD patients.
