Peer-Reviewed Research Review: Body posture and postural stability of people practicing qigong.
The study "Body posture and postural stability of people practicing qigong" by Wilczyński and Półrola (2015) investigates the impact of qigong exercises on the quality of body posture and postural stability. The importance of correct and stable posture is underscored as a prerequisite for effective voluntary movements and locomotion, highlighting the necessity of studying postural stability as part of clinical evaluations of physical activity. This research aims to analyze the relationship between body posture quality and postural stability among individuals practicing qigong, a form of traditional Chinese exercise known for its health benefits, particularly in enhancing stability and well-being.
Methods
The study involved 32 participants, predominantly women (81.25%), with an average age of 54 years. The evaluation of posture was conducted using the Diers formetric III 4D optoelectronic method, which offers a non-invasive and radiation-free assessment of body posture and spine alignment. Postural stability was assessed using the Biodex Balance System, a platform that measures stability indicators through the center of pressure (COP) on the feet.
Key parameters measured included kyphotic angle, lordotic angle, scoliotic angle, trunk length, pelvic tilt, and surface rotation. Postural stability was evaluated through three 20-second trials with eyes open, focusing on the general stability indicator (GSI), stability indicator A/P (anterior-posterior), and stability indicator M/L (medial-lateral).
Results
The study found significant positive correlations between the relative rotation of the spine and both the GSI and stability indicator A/P. This suggests that as the relative rotation of the spine increases, so does postural stability, indicating that qigong exercises may enhance stability by promoting optimal spinal alignment. Additionally, significant positive correlations were observed for surface rotation (+max) with both the GSI and stability indicator A/P, reinforcing the beneficial effects of qigong on postural stability.
Participants demonstrated an average kyphotic angle of 52.47°, lordotic angle of 42.75°, and scoliotic angle of 18.16°. The average trunk length was 445 mm, and the relative pelvic tilt averaged 0.31°. These measurements provide a comprehensive overview of the participants' baseline posture characteristics.
Discussion
The findings of Wilczyński and Półrola (2015) align with previous research indicating the therapeutic benefits of qigong in improving postural stability and overall well-being. The study's results are consistent with the observed effects of other traditional Chinese exercises, such as tai chi, which have also been shown to enhance postural stability and balance.
The authors discuss the role of qigong as a preventive and therapeutic modality, particularly in addressing postural stability disorders. The correlation between increased spinal rotation and improved stability suggests that qigong's gentle, meditative movements may encourage better posture and balance, thereby reducing the risk of falls and enhancing quality of life, especially among older adults.
The study's methodological rigor, including the use of advanced optoelectronic and stability assessment tools, strengthens the validity of its findings. However, the small sample size and the predominance of female participants may limit the generalizability of the results. Future research with larger, more diverse cohorts is recommended to further explore the benefits of qigong across different populations.
Conclusion
The study concludes that qigong exercises positively influence body posture and postural stability. Significant correlations between spinal rotation and stability indicators suggest that qigong may enhance stability by promoting optimal spinal alignment. These findings support the integration of qigong into therapeutic practices aimed at improving posture and stability, particularly in populations at risk of stability-related issues.
Reference
Wilczyński, J., & Półrola, P. (2015). Body posture and postural stability of people practicing qigong. Studia Medyczne, 31(2), 115–121.
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