Eastern movement therapies

Abstract

Tai chi, qigong, and yoga represent a class of exercise that differs from the routine strengthening and stretching programs currently employed in physical medicine. These techniques incorporate a "mind-body" approach to the rehabilitation of disorders commonly seen by physical medicine and rehabilitation clinicians. Research into the efficacy of these techniques clearly is in the beginning stages. What little has been conducted thus far is promising. These methods may serve to add valuable contributions to the continuity of care of ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients.