Paul Lam Designed to build strength, improve balance and better health. This two part program can enhance quality of life and reduce the risk of falls.
"Osteoporosis Australia supports the Tai Chi for Osteoporosis program designed by Dr Paul Lam" Judy Stenmark, CEO, Osteoporosis Australia.
"Tai Chi may help people with osteoporosis to improve their muscular strength, co-ordination and balance." Professor Markus Seibel, Endocrinologist, Concord Hospital, Sydney.
"Tai Chi is a fabulous exercise for older adults as it fulfills many of the outcomes we wish to achieve." Professor Shona Bass, Population Health, Deakin University, Melbourn.
Who Can Benefit from Tai Chi for Osteoporosis?
People with osteoporosis - to improve quality of life, slow down thinning of bones.
People who may develop osteoporosis.
Any beginner - an excellent introduction to Tai Chi, especially for older people to prevent incidence of falls.
What are the Contents?
We start with the medical experts explaining this condition, and how this program can be helpful. Dr Lam will teach, step-by-step, the complete program including warming up and cooling down exercises. After becoming proficient with the set, proceed to the next level of Advanced Instructions. To conclude, Dr Lam will demonstrate the entire set from the front on and back on positions.
How Does It Work?
There are many ways that tai chi works well for people with osteoporosis and other conditions. Listed below are the important factors supported by medical studies.
Bone Loss
An excellent study showed tai chi slowed down the loss of bone mineral density approximately three fold. Another study indicated that people who practice tai chi regularly have higher bone mineral density and better flexibility, muscle strength and balance.
Falls Prevention
Many studies have shown that tai chi reduces falls. This is especially important because when people with osteoporosis fall they are more like to sustain a fracture. A fracture can be a very serious problem for example hip fractures have a mortality rate of approximately 50%. It also seriously affects your quality of life. Tai chi has also been shown to improve balance and strength so even if you fall, you have a lesser chance of serious injury.
Associated Conditions
People with osteoporosis often have arthritis, loss of function due to age and weakness. Studies have shown that tai chi relieves pain from arthritis, improves balance and the ability to do daily activities.
Stress
People with chronic conditions such as osteoporosis are more likely to be mentally stressed and depressed because of the increasing inability to function normally on a day-to-day basis. Tai Chi has been shown to improve the mind, help people feel more relaxed and improve mental strength so they can cope better with chronic diseases.
