Kristine Hallisy
University of Wisconsin- Madison
USA
Title: Tai Chi: Meditative Movement Therapy as a Biopsychosocial Intervention for Persistent Pain: A Clinical Application
Biography
Biography: Kristine Hallisy
Abstract
Background: Persistent pain is a complex biopsychosocial condition that despite research efforts and innovative interventions remains a prevalent, disabling and costly challenge. It exacts a significant health burden in regards to quality of life costs (e.g. organic pathology and pain, psychological and psychosocial factors) as well as direct (medical) and indirect (economic workforce) costs. As such, management of persistent pain requires a 5-step psychologically-informed interprofessional collaborative approach to optimize management.1 Description: Meditative movement therapy2 (MMT), a new category of exercise, defined by: 1) some form of movement or body positioning, 2) a focus on breathing and 3) a calm state of mind with the goal of deep states of relaxation will be discussed as a physical therapy mind-body intervention for the management of persistent pain. Summary of Use: A clinical application of a specific form of MMT – a simplified version of Yang-style tai chi (Tai Chi Fundamentals Program3) will be described. Tai chi mind-body principles and guidelines for tai chi practice will be outlined. Specific tai chi movement patterns and their therapeutic, biomechanical and functional implications for the management of persistent pain will be delineated. Importance to Audience: This medical model tai chi program was developed in collaboration with physical therapists and utilizes a neurodevelopmental progression, and as such, is accessible to clients of all ages and functional abilities. As a MMT, tai chi has been shown to convincingly positive evidence for fall prevention and improvement of psychological health, as well as associated health benefits for many chronic health conditions (e.g. musculoskeletal and neurologic conditions, cardiovascular health, bone density, muscle strength and pain).4 As a MMT, tai chi is one example of a broad range of self-management mind-body exercise programs that may be beneficial for persons with persistent pain.5