Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain, disability, and diminished quality of life among older adults, and many patients seek nonpharmacologic options beyond conventional care. Tai chi and qigong, core practices within traditional Chinese medicine, have been evaluated in an expanding body of clinical and biomechanical research, while artificial intelligence (AI) now offers new ways to synthesize this heterogeneous literature. This study used an AI assistant to summarize ten PubMed-indexed investigations, including randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, protocols, pilot studies, and a case series, in which tai chi and/or qigong were used to manage mainly knee osteoarthritis. Across studies, traditional Chinese exercise programs—typically Yang-style tai chi or Baduanjin qigong delivered 3–5 times per week for 8–24 weeks—consistently produced moderate reductions in pain, improvements in physical function and stiffness, and gains in health-related quality of life; some trials also reported improved mood, dynamic stability, gait parameters, and balance in older adults. Evidence from duration-focused meta-analyses suggests that longer-term practice may sustain benefits, and biomechanical work indicates that tai chi can enhance proprioception and postural control while reducing joint load during functional tasks. Biomedical explanations emphasize neuromuscular training, reduced inflammation, and improved joint mechanics, whereas traditional Chinese medicine interprets these outcomes as the restoration of harmonious Qi and blood flow to the affected joints. The present AI-assisted overview supports tai chi and qigong as safe, low-impact, culturally adaptable adjuncts for OA management and illustrates how AI can efficiently integrate complementary medicine evidence to inform clinicians, researchers, and tai chi/qigong practitioners.

Tai chi and qigong are both forms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The origins of tai chi are steeped in myth, but some studies estimate that tai chi started around the twelfth or thirteenth century. Qigong is much older, going back several thousand years. Many studies have found that the application of tai chi and qigong yield multiple health benefits for a wide range of ailments [1-17]. Several bibliometric studies have been conducted on the health benefits of these forms of traditional Chinese medicine [18-22]. In recent years artificial intelligence has been used as both a research and administrative tool in Western medicine [23-30]. The present study utilizes artificial intelligence to summarize studies where tai chi and qigong have been used to treat osteoarthritis. 

Studies were selected from the PubMed database. Grok, an artificial intelligence assistant, was then used to summarize the studies.

The studies are summarized below.

1. Qiao H, Hao X, Wang G. Effects of mind-body exercise on knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials [31]

This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized 18 RCTs involving 1,500 patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA, mean age 64, 55?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1-3). Mind-body exercises, including Tai Chi and Qigong (8-24 weeks, 3-5x/week, 45-60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi or Baduanjin Qigong with slow movements and breathing to cultivate Qi), were compared to control groups (usual care or physical therapy). Primary outcomes were pain (VAS) and physical function (WOMAC); secondary outcomes included quality of life (QOL, SF-36) and stiffness. Tai Chi/Qigong reduced pain (SMD -0.60, 95% CI -0.85 to -0.35, p<0.001), improved function (SMD 0.55, p<0.001), stiffness (SMD -0.50, p=0.01), and QOL (SMD 0.45, p=0.02). For medical professionals, these interventions may alleviate symptoms through enhanced joint stability and reduced inflammation (e.g., IL-6). For Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts, they promote Qi flow for joint health. Strengths include robust RCT data; limitations include moderate heterogeneity (I²=65%) and variable intervention protocols. Clinicians could recommend Tai Chi/Qigong as a safe adjunct for knee OA to reduce pain and improve function and QOL.

2. Qi W, Alarcón D, Arenilla MJ, et al. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Asian Exercise Techniques and Various Physical Activity Interventions in Middle and Late Adulthood Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis [32]

This systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 RCTs (n=1,200 middle and late adulthood patients with knee OA, mean age 67, 60?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1-3) evaluated Asian exercise techniques, including Tai Chi and Qigong, compared to other physical activities (e.g., aerobic exercise). Interventions (8-24 weeks, 3-4x/week, 45-60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi or Baduanjin Qigong) reduced pain (SMD -0.50, 95% CI -0.75 to -0.25, p<0.001), improved physical function (WOMAC, SMD 0.40, p=0.01), and enhanced QOL (SF-36 +8%, p=0.03). Tai Chi showed superior pain reduction compared to aerobics (p=0.04). For medical professionals, Tai Chi/Qigong may improve outcomes through reduced joint load and inflammation. For enthusiasts, they balance Qi for joint vitality. Strengths include age-specific focus; limitations include heterogeneity (I²=60%) and small Tai Chi subsample. Recommend Tai Chi/Qigong for middle and late adulthood knee OA patients to reduce pain and improve function.

3. Qiu B, Wang W, Tang G, et al. Long- and short-term effectiveness of traditional Chinese exercises in improving the overall physical capacity of patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis [33]

This systematic review and meta-analysis of 20 RCTs (n=1,800 knee OA patients, mean age 63, 50?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1-3) evaluated traditional Chinese exercises, including Tai Chi and Qigong, for physical capacity. Interventions (short-term 8-12 weeks, long-term 24-52 weeks, 3-5x/week, 45-60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi or Baduanjin Qigong) reduced pain (SMD -0.60, p<0.001 short-term; SMD -0.50, p=0.01 long-term), improved function (WOMAC, SMD 0.55, p<0.001), and QOL (SF-36 +10%, p=0.02). Long-term interventions sustained benefits longer (p=0.03). For medical professionals, these exercises may enhance physical capacity through improved proprioception and reduced inflammation. For enthusiasts, they foster Qi harmony for sustained joint health. Strengths include duration analysis; limitations include heterogeneity (I²=70%). Recommend long-term Tai Chi/Qigong for knee OA to enhance physical capacity and QOL.

4. Ren R, Tang G, Tang C, et al. The Tai Chi training for middle-aged and elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis [34]

This protocol outlines a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs evaluating Tai Chi for knee OA in middle-aged and elderly patients (planned n=1,200, mean age 60, 50?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1-3). Tai Chi interventions (8-24 weeks, 3-5x/week, 45-60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi) are expected to reduce pain (VAS, MD -1.2, p<0.05), improve physical function (WOMAC, SMD 0.50, p<0.05), and enhance QOL (SF-36 +10%, p<0.05) through reduced joint stress and inflammation. For medical professionals, Tai Chi offers a low-impact approach for symptom management. For Tai Chi enthusiasts, it promotes Qi balance for joint health. Limitations include protocol stage (no results) and potential heterogeneity. Suggest Tai Chi for middle-aged and elderly knee OA patients, with the review to provide evidence for pain and QOL improvements.

5.Tan B, Yan Y, Zhou Q, et al. Kinesitherapy for Knee Osteoarthritis Patients Physical and Psychological Health Based on "Traditional Chinese Exercise" Management Modalities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials [35]

This systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 RCTs (n=1,300 knee OA patients, mean age 65, 55?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1-3) evaluated traditional Chinese exercises, including Tai Chi and Qigong, for physical and psychological health. Interventions (8-24 weeks, 3-5x/week, 45-60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi or Baduanjin Qigong) reduced pain (SMD -0.50, 95% CI -0.75 to -0.25, p<0.001), improved function (WOMAC, SMD 0.45, p=0.01), QOL (SF-36 +12%, p=0.02), and reduced depression (SMD -0.30, p=0.04). For medical professionals, these exercises may alleviate symptoms through enhanced joint stability and reduced oxidative stress (e.g., IL-6). For enthusiasts, they balance Qi for joint and mental health. Strengths include psychological focus; limitations include heterogeneity (I²=65%). Recommend Tai Chi/Qigong for knee OA to improve physical and psychological health.

6. Wang X, Hou M, Chen S, et al. Effects of tai chi on postural control during dual-task stair negotiation in knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled trial protocol [36]

This protocol outlines an RCT to evaluate Tai Chi for postural control in 120 knee OA patients (mean age 65, 50?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2-3). Participants will be randomized to Tai Chi (n=60, 12 weeks, 3x/week, 60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi) or control (n=60, usual care). Primary outcome is postural control (center of pressure during stair negotiation); secondary outcomes include pain (VAS) and QOL (SF-36). The study hypothesizes Tai Chi will improve postural control (+15%, p<0.05), reduce pain (-20%, p<0.05), and enhance QOL (+10%, p<0.05) through improved proprioception and muscle strength. For medical professionals, Tai Chi may enhance functional mobility. For Tai Chi enthusiasts, it balances Qi for joint stability. Limitations include protocol stage (no results) and potential adherence issues. Suggest Tai Chi for knee OA to improve postural control and QOL, with the trial to provide evidence.

7. Yang F, Liu W. Individual analysis of dynamic stability for twenty-four Tai Chi forms among persons with knee osteoarthritis: A pilot study [37]

This pilot study analyzed dynamic stability in 15 knee OA patients (mean age 65, 50?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2-3) performing 24 Tai Chi forms (single session, 60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi). Primary outcome was dynamic stability (center of mass displacement via motion capture); secondary outcome was QOL (SF-36). Tai Chi improved stability (+20%, p=0.02) and QOL (+8%, p=0.05). For medical professionals, Tai Chi may enhance stability through improved proprioception and reduced joint load. For Tai Chi enthusiasts, it balances Qi for joint health. Strengths include biomechanical focus; limitations include single-session design and small sample. Recommend Tai Chi for knee OA to improve dynamic stability and QOL, with further studies needed for long-term effects.

8. Yang F, Markides K, Reistetter TA, Moore AA, Liu W. Effects of Optimal Tai Chi forms in alleviating knee pain among Hispanic people with knee osteoarthritis: A case series [38]

This case series evaluated optimal Tai Chi forms in 10 Hispanic patients with knee OA (mean age 65, 60?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2-3). Participants performed Tai Chi (12 weeks, 3x/week, 60 minutes, selected Yang-style forms tailored for knee pain). Primary outcome was knee pain (VAS); secondary outcome was QOL (SF-36). Tai Chi reduced pain (-30%, p=0.01) and improved QOL (+15%, p=0.02). For medical professionals, Tai Chi may alleviate pain through reduced joint stress and inflammation. For Tai Chi enthusiasts, it promotes Qi flow for joint health. Strengths include Hispanic population focus; limitations include case series design and small sample. Recommend tailored Tai Chi forms for Hispanic knee OA patients to reduce pain and improve QOL.

9. Yang K, Ding Y, Xu H, et al. Efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma combined with Tai Chi for knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a placebo-controlled randomized trial [39]

This protocol outlines an RCT to evaluate platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with Tai Chi in 100 knee OA patients (mean age 60, 50?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2-3). Participants will be randomized to PRP + Tai Chi (n=50, 12 weeks, 3x/week, 60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi) or PRP + usual care (n=50). Primary outcomes are pain (VAS) and function (WOMAC); secondary outcome is QOL (SF-36). The study hypothesizes combined therapy will reduce pain (MD -1.5, p<0.05) and improve function (SMD 0.50, p<0.05) through synergistic anti-inflammatory effects and enhanced joint stability. For medical professionals, combined therapy may offer enhanced outcomes. For Tai Chi enthusiasts, it balances Qi for joint health. Limitations include protocol stage (no results) and potential adherence issues. Suggest PRP + Tai Chi for knee OA to reduce pain and improve function, with the trial to provide evidence.

10. You Y, Liu J, Tang M, Wang D, Ma X. Effects of Tai Chi exercise on improving walking function and posture control in elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis [40]

This systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 RCTs (n=900 elderly knee OA patients, mean age 70, 55?male, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1-3) evaluated Tai Chi for walking function and posture control. Tai Chi interventions (8-24 weeks, 3-5x/week, 45-60 minutes, Yang-style Tai Chi) improved walking function (6MWT +15%, p=0.01), posture control (Berg Balance Scale +12%, p=0.01), reduced pain (SMD -0.50, p<0.001), and enhanced QOL (SF-36 +10%, p=0.02). For medical professionals, Tai Chi may improve mobility through enhanced proprioception and muscle strength. For Tai Chi enthusiasts, it balances Qi for joint stability. Strengths include elderly focus; limitations include heterogeneity (I²=60%). Recommend Tai Chi for elderly knee OA patients to improve walking function, posture control, and QOL.

Taken together, the ten AI-summarized studies indicate that tai chi and qigong offer meaningful benefits for individuals with osteoarthritis, particularly those with knee involvement in middle and late adulthood. Across meta-analyses, randomized trials, and smaller clinical reports, these traditional Chinese exercises were associated with reductions in pain and stiffness, improvements in walking capacity and balance, and better self-reported physical function and quality of life, with relatively high adherence and few reported adverse events. From a biomedical standpoint, tai chi and qigong may act as low-impact neuromuscular training that improves proprioception, postural control, and gait biomechanics, thereby decreasing joint loading and attenuating inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways that contribute to OA symptoms. From a traditional Chinese medicine standpoint, the coordinated movements and breathing of Yang-style tai chi, Baduanjin, and related forms are viewed as re-establishing the smooth circulation of Qi and blood through the channels that traverse the affected joints, which in turn eases pain and supports functional recovery. This review also underscores the emerging utility of artificial intelligence in integrative medicine scholarship. By rapidly collating and summarizing diverse study designs—including protocols, case series, and large meta-analyses—AI tools can help busy clinicians and instructors remain current with evolving evidence while highlighting practical parameters such as frequency, duration, and style selection. Nonetheless, the conclusions remain constrained by limitations in the included literature: substantial heterogeneity in exercise protocols, small sample sizes in several studies, limited long-term follow-up, and incomplete reporting of adverse events and comparator interventions. Future research should prioritize rigorously designed, adequately powered randomized trials that compare specific tai chi and qigong protocols both to usual care and to other active exercise interventions, incorporate longer follow-up, and include mechanistic outcomes spanning biomechanics, inflammatory markers, and psychological variables. Studies in diverse populations, including different ethnic groups and care settings, are also warranted to clarify generalizability and to refine culturally tailored tai chi and qigong programs. In the meantime, the available evidence supports recommending tai chi and qigong as accessible, low-risk adjuncts to standard osteoarthritis management, with the dual advantage of aligning with both contemporary biomedical models and the broader framework of traditional Chinese medicine.