Ai chi uses an active relaxation technique in which breathing and postural control are important. Clinical Ai Chi and Ai chi are different from each other. Ai Chi is performed in wellness and Clinical Ai Chi can be used for therapeutic applications.
Knowledge Hub
Clinical Ai Chi
Advantages
- Fatique
- Balance
- Muscle strength
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Autonomy
- Relaxation
Applications
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Fall prevention
- Dementia
Clinical Ai Chi relations with a ICF Subcategories.
| Function level domain B7 neuromusculoskeletal and movement related functions | Activity level: domain D4 mobility |
|---|---|
| 710: Mobility of joint functions.715: Stability of joints functions.720: Mobility of bone functions (scapula).730: Muscle power.755: Involuntary movement reaction functions.7602: Coordination of voluntary movement.7603: Supportive functions of the legs.7800: Sensation of muscular stiffness.7801: Sensation of muscle spasm | 4106: Shifting the body's the center of gravity.4154: Maintaining a standing position.4452: Use of arms: reaching. |
Method
Ai Chi consist of 19 movements (kata’s). Each movement takes places at breath rate, which is about 14 and 16 times per minute. these movements are:
- Contemplating, Floating, Uplifting, Enclosing and Folding
- Soothing
- Gathering
- Freeing
- Shifting
- Accepting
- Accepting with grace and rounding
- Balancing
- Half Circling, Encircling, Surrounding, Nurturing
- Flowing and Reflecting
- Suspending
Over time the regulatory conditions change, these are:
- Going to a rotary trunk position form a symmetrical trunk position.
- From a static to a dynamic COG (center of gravity).
- Large reaching movements instead of small hand movements.
- Using narrower base support.
- From visual control to non-visual / vestibular control.
- From symmetrical to asymmetrical arm movements.
Hydrotherapy equipment
- Movable swimming pool floor
- Modular pool
- Underwater treadmill
Sources
Articles
Singh (2025) Effectiveness of Ai Chi as Aquatic Intervention for Balance Impairments in Community dwelling Older Adults in India A Randomised Controlled Study
Camilotti (2015) Effects of Ai Chi and Yamamoto new scalp acupuncture on chronic low back pain
The Bad Ragaz Ring Method (Gamper & Lambeck 2010)
Methajarunon (2016) Systematic review of published studies on aquatic exercise for balance in patients with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and hemiplegia.
Becker & Lynch (2018) Case Report Aquatic Therapy and End-Stage Dementia
Niks & ‘t Hoofd (2017) Aquamentia, Introducing a Newly Developed Swimming Intervention for People With Dementia
Waller (2014) Effect of Therapeutic Aquatic Exercise on Symptoms and function associated with lower limb osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis
Fransen (2007) Physical activity for osteoarthritis management- a randomized controlled clinical trial evaluating hydrotherapy or Tai Chi classes.
Epps (2005) Is hydrotherapy cost-effective, A randomised controlled trial of combined hydrotherapy programmes
Clinical Ai Chi Lambeck and Bommer (2009)
Castro-Sánchez (2011) Hydrotherapy for the treatment of pain in people with multiple sclerosis
Teixeira (2007) Influence of Ai Chi on balance and fear of falling on older adults (portuguese)