The Effectiveness of Tai Chi in Improving Motor and Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease: A Narrative Review

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that results in motor and non-motor disability. Without therapy, PD progresses to a stiff, akinetic condition in which patients are not able to care for themselves. Complications of immobility may result in death due to aspiration pneumonia and pulmonary embolism.1 Increasing attention is being paid to the significance of morbidity associated with motor and non-motor dysfunction from Parkinson’s disease and their connection. Practitioners of conventional Western medicine tend to address and typically manage each symptom separately and one at a time. For example, a PD patient may be prescribed a medication for tremor, depression, and insomnia. In comparison, complementary therapy, originating from Eastern medicine, directs treatment through mindfulness and mind-body interventions. It tends to address the motor and non-motor disability of PD concurrently. The objective of this review is to conduct and summarize a literature review evaluating the effects of Tai Chi, a mind-body exercise, used for PD patients. This review will evaluate Tai Chi’s overall effects in increasing postural and gait stability, decreasing falls, and improving overall quality of life