United States: In a recent study, scientists indicated that qigong exercise from ancient China provides possible relief via mind-body movement for individuals suffering from low back pain.
More about the news
The exercises and meditation postures define qigong parallel tai chi by presenting gentle movements during slow transitions along with static positions that create tension relief and enhance body flexibility.
A group of military veterans who practiced Qigong for eight weeks reported improved pain relief and better sleep than a control group that did not use the method.
According to a senior researcher, Cheryl Krause-Parello, associate vice president for research at Florida Atlantic University, “Stretching, loosening, strengthening and balancing techniques of qigong may release back tension, ease pain and improve flexibility and alignment,” US News reported.
How was the study conducted?
The research involved ten veterans who received an eight-week period of qigong teaching as randomly selected by the team.
The practice brought pain relief and better sleep to a small group of military veterans after eight weeks, compared to another group that didn’t use Qigong.
Researchers selected 12 vets who became a control group while waiting to be assessed for the study.
Research background notes indicate that between 40 and 70 percent of veterans face chronic pain, with back pain being their primary reported complaint, US News reported.
What more have the experts suggested?
Research findings indicate painkillers should not be prescribed to veterans since they receive substantially higher opioid rates than civilians throughout the veteran community.
Higher opioid prescriptions increase veteran risks of both addiction and overdose.
The research group believed Qigong practice could help military veterans control their back pain without requiring medication treatment.
“This holistic approach addresses the complex challenges faced by veterans with chronic low back pain without relying on medications,” as Krause-Parello stated.
About Qigong method
According to researchers, Qigong serves as a method for developing and achieving balance in the human life force, which is known as “qi” or “life force.”
Researchers figured Qigong might be a way to help veterans manage back pain without resorting to painkillers.
Participants follow regimens that emphasize self-energy enhancement, but they learn beneficial spinal routines, including careful body bends and stretches and muscle strengthening sessions.
Furthermore, “Qigong practice can strengthen the musculoskeletal system and improve joint flexibility, motor function, and movement coordination,” Krause-Parello added.
“It can activate postural improvements and decrease pain. Importantly, it can improve physical conditions and psychosocial function such as depression and social isolation in veterans with chronic back pain,” he continued, as US News reported.
Results show that participants who learned Qigong during the eight-week session reported diminished pain intensity as well as disability symptoms.
Practicing Qigong improved sleep quality for participants throughout the study period, according to researchers.
People who practiced Qigong exhibited decreased levels of biological pain indicators, including pro-inflammatory substances, which survey analyses confirmed.