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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has anyone tried tia chi or tia chi walking? If so, did it help or hurt you?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Utah

I just started this morning. I keep seeing things about it. I just did a short session to start. I could feel it in my legs a bit, but not bad. Im praying it doesn't effect my nerve damaged arm like other excersizes.

March 16
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Answer Summary

Members enthusiastically shared their experiences with tai chi, with many finding gentle chair-based or water-based variations like ai chi to... Read more

Members enthusiastically shared their experiences with tai chi, with many finding gentle chair-based or water-based variations like ai chi to be more accessible when balance issues, nerve damage, or mobility challenges made traditional standing forms difficult. Several members highlighted practical adaptations that worked for them, including YouTube beginner sessions, seated arm movements, hybrid routines blending yoga and tai chi, and the concept of 'exercise snacks' (short sessions throughout the day) to make movement more sustainable. A recurring theme was the calming yet effective nature of tai chi's low-impact movements, with members feeling muscles engaged without joint pain, and a shared determination to find creative ways to stay active despite significant physical limitations.

myRAteam

Has tai chi helped anyone with rheumatoid arthritis?

It's great that you're exploring tai chi! This low-impact exercise can be beneficial for people with RA. While tai chi doesn't seem to directly affect RA disease activity, research suggests it can help improve mood, depression, and overall quality of life.

The slow Show Full Answer

Has tai chi helped anyone with rheumatoid arthritis?

It's great that you're exploring tai chi! This low-impact exercise can be beneficial for people with RA. While tai chi doesn't seem to directly affect RA disease activity, research suggests it can help improve mood, depression, and overall quality of life.

The slow, deliberate movements make it easier on joints compared to high-impact activities. Since you're just starting, feeling it a bit in your legs is normal as your muscles adjust. Starting with short sessions like you did is a smart approach.

Regarding your nerve-damaged arm, tai chi's gentle nature may actually work in your favor compared to more strenuous exercises. The movements are controlled and can be modified to your comfort level. However, it's important to listen to your body and stop if you experience pain (not just mild discomfort).

Consider working with an instructor initially who can help you modify movements to accommodate your arm. If you notice any worsening symptoms in your arm, discuss it with your rheumatologist or physical therapist to adjust your approach.

Many people with RA find tai chi helpful alongside their treatment plan, so hopefully it works well for you too!

March 16
A myRAteam Member

Carol, there are more of these ai chi videos to choose from now, but this is #1 of 2/9-minute videos. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wje4Y4E1CXA&amp...

March 16
A myRAteam Member

Carol, I like tai chi. My first encounter was 10-12 years ago. I took a class. It was just too hard on my knee. I kept it as a goal but kept looking for an alternative because I really liked it. I did the chair tai chi for a while, but the one I Loovveedd was ai chi. Ai chi is in the pool, slow, easy, builds muscle because of the water resistance, never sore, relaxing, helps with balance and you never fall... IMO it's perfect. I no longer have a pool, and I'm more consistent with things I can do at home. I've just found this video since the first of the year. I think it's a good compromise between the flow routines and the tai chi walking. There are no transitions and no twisting my knee. If I can find the ai chi video, I'll post it. class https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhNvdxbi-Jc&amp...

March 16
A myRAteam Member

Yes, and I find it beneficial so far.

March 31
A myRAteam Member

My balance is not good either. I tried the arm tai chi, it was good for my joints, but the muscles ached like heck. I want to continue, but cut back on the rotations.

March 19

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