Evidence Based Mind-Body Practices and the Physical Therapist: Extending the Continuum of Care with Tai Chi & Qigong
In this course, Physical Therapists, Physical Therapy Assistants and community based Tai Chi teachers learn from the same page (CDC’s Tai Chi Moving for Better Balance program). Tai Chi Moving for Better Balance, is an evidence based program*. It is the result of years of research and has been shown to reduce the rate of falls among older adults by as much as 55%! Learning and Practicing Tai Chi is recommended for fall prevention by the American and British Geriatrics Association in their clinical guidelines for practice (2010). Use Tai Chi as Physical Therapy for injury prevention, psycho-motor rehabilitation, and wellness activity. CDC Intro video below.
Tai Chi (tie gee) and Qigong (chee goong) are defined as “Mind Body” practices, and are recognized by U.S. Department of Health & Human Services National Institutes of Health (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health) as Integrative Medicine practices. Tai Chi and qi gong are centuries-old, related mind and body practices. They involve certain postures and gentle movements with mental focus, breathing, and relaxation. The movements can be adapted or practiced while walking, standing, or sitting. In contrast to qi gong, tai chi movements, if practiced quickly, can be a form of combat or self-defense.
In this one day (8 CCU) Physical Therapist Continuing Education Course/Tai Chi Teacher Training Course, participants will:
A.1 Review/Discuss relevant scientific literature as a group:
Tai Chi as Physical Therapy to address injury (fall) prevention, chronic conditions, and other Quality of Life issues.
A.2 Assess Pre and Post Tai Chi Training: functional ability and risk of injury.
A.3 Demonstrate Tai Chi Exercises or “Movements” learned.
A.4 Analyze performance of movement using Tai Chi Forms Assessment Tool.
A.5 Demonstrate modified Tai Chi movement for use with persons of varying ability.
A.6 Teach at least once during role play, using Instructor’s Guide.
A.7 Use Instructor’s Guide to integrate tai chi activity as a one on one or small group therapy strategy.