Osteoarthritis is a painful condition that can prevent people from enjoying everyday life. But new research from the University of Melbourne in Australia found that a free online course guiding participants in the practice of Tai Chi can alleviate arthritic knee pain and restore knee function.

Tai Chi is characterized by slow, gentle mind-body movements and they are a popular option for people looking to assist with balance, range of motion and overall wellness. It has also been shown to help alleviate body pain.

Traditional limiting factors to the practice of Tai Chi are the fact classes meet in person and you have to generally pay for instruction. This study shows there is a way around both.

The fact that the courses are free eliminates the barrier of cost for the instruction. And the fact the courses are online means people can do them on their own schedule without the need to travel to a specific location.

Osteoarthritis is prevalent in Australia and America, affecting as much as 20 percent of the population over the age of 45. It results in health care costs in the billions. That's what prompted researchers to find out if an inexpensive and accessible option may be of benefit.

The study results published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine indeed did show the program was effective in improving pail levels as well as function in those with chronic knee pain.

It was developed with the Tai Chi experts and those suffering with osteoarthritis. The online instruction can be accessed through this link. https://myjoint-taichi.org/

There are 12 pre-recorded segments lasting 40 minutes. Each weekly session is meant to be practiced three times each week before moving on to the next session. They are led by an experienced Tai Chi instructor and the sessions are geared toward people suffering with chronic knee pain.

The modified 10-form Yang-style routine is designed for people with little or now prior Tai Chi experience.

There were a total of 178 adults who participated in the randomized controlled trial. They were assigned to either the online Tai Chi program or a different online program that educated the participants about the benefits exercise could have on their osteoarthritis.

The Tai Chi participants reported greater improvements in pain and physical function and twice as many reported overall improvement in their knee condition. The Tai Chi participants also reported improvements in quality of life, physical and mental well-being and balance. And no serious adverse events were reported. Needless to say, the Tai Chi participants were highly satisfied and said they would recommend it to others.

Click here to read more in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine.