Tai Chi effects on neuropsychological, emotional, and physical functioning following cancer treatment: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the effects of a 10-week Tai Chi (TC) program on neuropsychological, psychological, and physical health of female cancer survivors.

DESIGN:

Twenty-three women with a history of cancer participated in 60-min TC classes two times/week for 10-weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Before and after the intervention, participants completed neuropsychological tests (memory, executive functioning, language, and attention); 5 tests of balance; and self-report questionnaires of neuropsychological complaints, stress and mood, and fatigue.

RESULTS:

After the 10-week session, participants evidenced fewer neuropsychological complaints and enhanced neuropsychological functioning. They also demonstrated improved balance and reported better psychological functioning.

CONCLUSIONS:

Results suggest that TC may promote gains in neuropsychological functioning, in addition to previously demonstrated improvements in physical and psychological health. These findings support the need for controlled trials examining the potential benefits of TC on neuropsychological functioning after cancer.