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Systematic review and meta-analysis: Tai Chi for preventing falls in older adults

Meta-analysis of 18 RCTs (n=3824): Tai Chi reduced the risk of falling at least once (RR 0.80) and the rate of falls (IRR 0.69) versus controls; effects appeared stronger with higher practice frequency and with Yang-style programmes in subgroup analyses.

Design

  • SR + MA; 18 RCTs, 3824 participants
  • Outcomes: fallers (dichotomous) and fall rate (counts)

Pooled effects (random effects; abstract)

  • ≥1 fall: RR 0.80 (95% CI 0.72–0.88)
  • Fall rate: IRR 0.69 (95% CI 0.60–0.80)

Subgroup signals (interpret cautiously)

  • Exercise frequency: preventive effect likely stronger with higher frequency (interaction p=0.001 fallers; p=0.007 fall rate)
  • Style: Yang Tai Chi likely more effective than Sun style on both outcomes (p=0.01 / p=0.001)

Limitations

Authors note publication bias (funnel asymmetry).

Publication

Huang ZG, et al. BMJ Open. 2017 Feb 6;7(2):e013661. PMID 28167744.

Outcomes

  • Fracture Risk
    Events: /
  • Incidence rate ratio for falls 0.69 (95% CI 0.60-0.80) favouring Tai Chi vs control.
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