February is Heart Month and stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. When someone suffers a stroke the effects can vary greatly depending on how quick the response time is. Common effects can include muscle weakness and balance issues.
The ancient forms of Tai Chi have proven health benefits for a number of conditions ranging from arthritis, osteoporosis, psychological benefits, blood pressure, COPD, along with many others. Various forms of Tai Chi are practiced throughout the world. Two of which we teach here at Raleigh Orthopaedic.
The recent article by the American Heart Association “Recovering from a Stroke: Tai Chi Exercises” highlights the benefits of Tai Chi to two of the most common effects of stroke, muscle weakness and balance issues. As the article explains, the slow movements and focused weight shifting have been shown to increase the balance of individuals, including those recovering from a stroke. Muscles are also strengthened, not only in the lower extremities from the weight shifting and controlled movements but also of the upper body with the arm movements that are a part of any Tai Chi practice like we offer here at Raleigh Orthopaedic through our CORE program.