The efficacy of Tai Chi for essential hypertension: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

AbstractAimWe aimed to assess the impact of Tai Chi interventions on individuals with essential hypertension and to compare the effects of Tai Chi versus control in this population.BackgroundTai Chi has been extensively utilized in the prevention of essential hypertension. Nevertheless, there is a lack of consensus regarding its benefits for treating essential hypertension.DesignA systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted.Data SourcesWe conducted a systematic literature search of the Medline, Scholar, Elsevier, Wiley Online Library, Chinese Academic Journal (CNKI) and Wanfang databases from January 2003 to August 2023.Review MethodsUsing the methods of the Cochrane Collaboration Handbook, a meta‐analysis was conducted to assess the collective impact of Tai Chi exercise in controlling hypertension. The primary outcomes measured included blood pressure and nitric oxide levels.ResultsThe participants consisted of adults with an average age of 57.1 years who had hypertension (mean ± standard deviation systolic blood pressure at 148.2 ± 12.1 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure at 89.2 ± 8.3 mmHg). Individuals who practiced Tai Chi experienced reductions in systolic blood pressure of 10.6 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure of 4.7 mmHg and an increase in nitric oxide levels.ConclusionsTai Chi can be a viable lifestyle intervention for managing hypertension. Greater promotion of Tai Chi by medical professionals could extend these benefits to a larger patient population.