Tai Chi vs. Wellness Education for Osteoarthritis
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have used antibiotics or probiotics in the last 4 weeks, you may not be eligible to participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Tai Chi for osteoarthritis?
Is Tai Chi safe for humans?
How is Tai Chi different from other treatments for osteoarthritis?
Tai Chi is a gentle exercise derived from an ancient Chinese martial art that can help relieve knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. Unlike standard treatments, it combines physical movement with mindfulness, making it a unique and cost-effective option, especially for older adults and those with mild cognitive impairment.510111213
What is the purpose of this trial?
This exploratory study is to compares mechanisms of mind-body exercise with wellness education program on gut microbiota for osteoarthritis as a basis for a future large-scale trial.
Research Team
Chenchen Wang, MD, MSc
Principal Investigator
Tufts Medical Center
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for individuals over 55 with symptomatic osteoarthritis and a pain score of ≥40 on the WOMAC scale. Participants should meet the American College of Rheumatology criteria for OA but can't join if they've used antibiotics or probiotics recently, have certain gut diseases, infections like hepatitis B or C, dementia, cancer, heart disease, kidney or liver problems.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants are randomized into Tai Chi or wellness education interventions for 12 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in gut microbiota and clinical outcomes
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Tai Chi
- Wellness Education
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Tufts Medical Center
Lead Sponsor