Peer-Reviewed Research: Effects of Zhang Zhuang Qigong on Improving Symptom and Psychological Distress in Chemotherapy Patients
The article investigates the effects of Chan-Chuang (Zhang Zhuang) Qigong on symptom and psychological distress in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. This quasi-experimental study aimed to determine whether this traditional Chinese practice could alleviate both physical and emotional suffering among chemotherapy patients. Patients were split into two groups: the experimental group, which practiced Chan-Chuang Qigong daily, and a control group that did not receive the intervention.
Key Findings
Symptom Distress: The study found significant differences between the groups in physical symptom relief by day 22 of chemotherapy. Patients practicing Chan-Chuang Qigong reported less severity in symptoms such as pain, numbness, heartburn, and dizziness. The researchers attributed these outcomes to Qigong’s ability to improve blood circulation and reduce stress on the central and sympathetic nervous systems, promoting relaxation and a balanced state of body and mind.
Psychological Distress: While overall psychological distress scores between the groups were not statistically significant, certain psychological indicators, such as hopelessness about the future and unwillingness to live, were markedly improved in the Qigong group. This suggests that Qigong practice may indirectly impact emotional resilience and outlook, potentially by providing a coping mechanism or by enhancing physiological stability, which can in turn influence emotional states.
Ease of Practice: Chan-Chuang Qigong is presented as an accessible practice for chemotherapy patients, given its simplicity and lack of side effects. The practice does not require intense physical effort, making it ideal for patients experiencing physical weakness from chemotherapy.
Methodology
The research involved 67 breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy in Taiwan. Thirty-two patients practiced Qigong for 15-60 minutes daily for 21 days, while the remaining 35 formed the control group. The study used McCorkle and Young’s modified symptom distress scale (SDS) and the symptom checklist-90-revised (SCL-90-R) to evaluate the patients’ symptoms and psychological conditions across four time points (pre-test, day 8, day 15, and day 22).
Discussion
The authors contextualize the benefits of Chan-Chuang Qigong within the framework of Chinese medical philosophy, highlighting Qigong’s role in enhancing the body’s “healthy qi” and mitigating “pathogenic qi.” These concepts are contrasted with Western medical terminology, where chemotherapy's side effects, such as “excessive toxic heat” or “qi and blood disorder,” are linked to physiological symptoms like inflammation and nausea. The article suggests that Qigong may help counteract these chemotherapy-related imbalances, improving overall physical well-being and possibly alleviating psychological distress indirectly.
Strengths and Limitations
The study provides a compelling case for integrating Chan-Chuang Qigong as a complementary therapy in oncology settings. However, limitations include the non-randomized allocation of participants, which may introduce selection bias. The authors also acknowledge the challenges in objectively measuring psychological distress, as patients may underreport these symptoms. Future studies with randomized designs and larger sample sizes could help substantiate the findings and clarify the psychological benefits of Qigong.
Conclusion
This research adds to the growing evidence supporting Qigong as a complementary therapy for cancer patients, specifically those undergoing chemotherapy. By alleviating physical discomfort and potentially stabilizing emotional states, Qigong could serve as a valuable, non-invasive intervention in palliative care settings. The authors advocate for further studies to explore Qigong's full potential and call for healthcare professionals to gain a foundational understanding of Chinese medicine to better guide patients in complementary practices.
Reference (APA)
Lee, T.-I., Chen, H.-H., & Yeh, M.-L. (2006). Effects of Chan-Chuang Qigong on improving symptom and psychological distress in chemotherapy patients. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 34(1), 37–46.
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