Tai Chi is an old Chinese exercise that uses an integrated mind-body approach to enhance muscle function, balance and flexibility and has been known to reduce pain, depression, and anxiety in those who practice the exercise regularly. A study was carried out by the Tufts Medical Center, Division of Rheumatology on 40 patients of an average age of 65 years, slightly overweight and suffering from Osteoarthritis or OA for past 10 years. The patients were introduced to Tai Chi (10 modified forms from the classical Yang Style) or to conventional stretching and wellness.

70 percent of the patients were women and 70 percent were Caucasian. The 12 week process involved 60 minutes, twice a week of exercise and therapy. It was concluded that Tai Chi was very effective in treating pain and physical impairment in people with severe Knee OA.

Dr. Chenchen Wan, MSc, Tufts Medical Center, who was the leader of the investigation team stated "Tai Chi mind-body exercise appears to provide an important approach for self care and self management for knee OA; however, these results should be confirmed by future large studies".

OA is seen as the most common type of arthritis. It develops when cartilage in the joints of the body wears down over time. It is incurable and worsens over time. As Tai Chi proves to be more effective in relieving pain, The Arthritis Foundation also recommends it for improving the quality of life of people with arthritis.