Tai Chi for Therapists

Ep.04 Tai Chi In A Physiotherapy Practice

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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

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    Tai Chi for TherapistsBy Philip Sheridan and Helen Parsons