Benefits of Tai Ji Quan practice on neuromuscular functions in older adults: A Systematic Review and meta-analysis

Background and Purpose: Tai Ji Quan (TJQ) practice has been recommended for reducing falls in older adults, but a gap exists in our understanding of the neuromuscular mechanisms underlying TJQ practice benefits. This study aims to quantify and validate neuromuscular mechanisms underlying TJQ practice benefits in older adults. Materials and methods: This review and analysis followed the PRISMA framework. All meta-analyses were performed in R. Results: For healthy older adults, TJQ practice was found to decrease muscle onset latency. Higher leg muscle activations were found during TJQ gait in comparison to normal gait. A significant interaction between TJQ practice time and age of the cohort was observed in muscle onset latency. For adults with pre-existing health conditions, TJQ practice has similar neuromuscular benefits as conventional rehabilitation methods. Conclusion: Neuromuscular function improvements associated with TJQ practice provide a mechanism for reducing falls in older adults with and without pre-existing health conditions.