From: CNN.com, March, 2004

According to an article in the Archives of Internal Medicine, Tai Chi can improve strength, balance and flexibility, as well as have positive effects on chronic health conditions like multiple sclerosis and joint problems.

The Arthritis Foundation has looked to Tai Chi as a possible treatment for arthritis. The foundation’s program is based on Dr. Paul Lam’s “Tai Chi for Arthritis” program. Lam, now 53, developed osteoarthritis in his 20s and used Tai Chi as a way to control the disease.

Although no published studies exist that provide proof to whether Tai Chi can help those suffering from the disease, participants in Lam’s program report benefits ranging from pain relief to lower blood pressure.

Dr. Chenchen Wang urges patients to take precautions before beginning a Tai Chi practice, however. He believes that for some people Tai Chi could worsen joint problems and other symptoms of arthritis.