OsteoLink is an initiative of the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF)
and the Division of Bone Disease at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva.

  1. Sylvia Merope Posts: 1
    Joined: 11/05/12

    Tai Chi and Qigong

    Hello

    I was diagnosed with osteoporosis 14 years ago and decided to stabilise and try to improve my bones'h health through those gentle arts rather than taking medication.

    Although I take Vit D, calcium ,magnesium and fish oil regularly, my main focus has been on Qigong, the cultivation of Qi or vital energy.

    I pracise everyday, warming up thorougly first to loosen joints and stetch muscles, focus my mind on deep breathing and start reaching a state of tranquility. Then I practise my meditative forms.The Wild Goose is the one which really resonates for me, retracing a day in the life of a wild goose coming to rest by a lake after a long migratory voyage. it is beautiful, flowing like a dance and when you finish, your body and mind are filled with a serene and strong energy.I also teach it now along with other forms and Tai Chi for Arthritis.

    For me it has been the best answer to my osteoporosis and osteoarthritis and I hope to keep going as long as I can. if you can find a class near you, give it a try. It may change your life.

     

    By: Sylvia Merope • Posted:May 11 2012 • Views: 25

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  2. /profile/Joanie Posts:7
    Joined:04/04/12

    Hello Sylvia,

    Thanks for your post.  It is always interesting to find out how others are managing their osteoporosis.  How is the word "qi gong" pronounced? kee gong? or kwee gong perhaps?  Is it a kind of meditation that is done with a specific tai chi movement? 

    Do you know if your bone density has improved in 14 years?  Have you had any fractures in that time?  I was diagnosed about a month ago (with 2 spinal fractures -3) so I'm very new to all this.  The doctor recommended Protos which I'm taking and I've been to see a physio regarding exercising.  I've made an appointment to see a dietician as well, just to check if my diet is the best it can be for this condition.  I've read that tai chi is good for improving one's balance - so on your recommendation I might give it a try!

    Thanks again for taking the time to contribute to this support group.

    Regards,

    Joan                P.S.  Where is Cygnet??

     

     

    By: Joan • Posted:May 11 2012

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  3. /profile/Joanne Posts:2
    Joined:16/05/12
    Content is edited

    Hi there Sylvia

    I was diagnosed 7yrs ago. I also have been doing Tai Chi for 4 1/2 yrs now, twice a week. Initially it was a friend who got me involved, he's an instructor in Qigong and Tai Chi too, but lives in S.A. I got to the stage I couldn't even put on shoes, socks or pull up trousers, my hubby had to help me. That was before I knew the benefits of Tai Chi. Now I believe in the benefits and am reaping the rewards - more flexibility, not so stiff, fewer problems with bad disks and less pain too.

    I take tablets, plus I've had the 3yr course of injections for osteoporosis, but my doc. says she would like to wait a few years to see if the injections did make any difference.

    I echo your thoughts - join up, it's easier than yoga which I did try too, but it's not for me

    Bye

    Joan

     

    By: Joan H. • Posted:May 16 2012

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  4. /profile/Sherri Posts:1
    Joined:14/02/12

     Hello

    I have been going to Tai Chi classes now for about a year and a half since I was diagnosed (following a fall on a wet slate floor and fracturing my wrist) and love them.  I am sure Tai Chi has helped me with any balance issues I may have and is a lovely calming way of exercising.

    Has anyone tried using a mini trampoline to strengthen bone and general overall health.  I have one but am not sure whether to use it. 

    Regards, Sherri

    By: Sheridan Cobcroft • Posted:Oct 24 2012

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  5. /profile/Joanie Posts:7
    Joined:04/04/12

    Hi Sheridan,

    Your post has encouraged me to try Tai Chi.  I did a 10 week beginner's yoga course and discovered that my balance is not so good.  I'm now doing 12 yoga poses every day as part of a scientific study - hopefully the poses are  improving my balance. I haven't used a mini trampoline, but perhaps it would be a good idea to ask a physio who understands your health situation.

    Regards,

    Joan

     

    By: Joan • Posted:Nov 05 2012

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