Integrative Medicine Reports (Jan 2023)
The Use of Tai Chi and Qigong to Mediate Long-Haul COVID-19 Symptoms: Case Report
Abstract
Introduction: Although new COVID-19 cases have been decreasing globally, long-haul COVID-19 continues to present a challenge. Long-haul COVID-19 symptoms, such as dyspnea, fatigue, cognitive impairments, gastrointestinal distress, and mood changes, can remain for months after initial infection in 10-30% of individuals infected with COVID-19. These symptoms can limit daily function and decrease quality of life. Given the recency of the disease, very little literature exists on the causes of long-haul COVID-19 and few treatment options are available for afflicted individuals. This case report describes the use of the Eastern medicine practices of Tai Chi and Qigong as a possible technique to increase lung function and thus daily function in those with long-haul COVID. Both Tai Chi and Qigong were developed thousands of years ago in China and utilized as part of traditional Chinese medicine. They are forms of gentle, low-intensity exercise involving slow, continuous movements and stretches that focus on alignment, coordination, and breathing control. Previous studies have shown that Tai Chi and Qigong provide beneficial effects in those experiencing mood disorders, chronic pain, cardiovascular issues, fibromyalgia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Although practitioners have proposed the use of Tai Chi and Qigong in patients with COVID-19, no data exists on the outcomes. Materials and Methods: This case report presents a patient with pre-existing conditions of obesity, gastroesophageal reflux disease, cervical cancer, cataract surgery, and sinus surgery initially diagnosed with COVID-19 with symptoms of acute dyspnea, dizziness, cough, headache, chills, fever, rhinorrhea, and sore throat. She was later diagnosed with long-haul COVID-19 with symptoms of dyspnea, fatigue, and dizziness on exertion and gastrointestinal distress. The patient practiced Tai Chi and Qigong three to four times weekly for about 30 min on average. Results: The patient experienced decreases in resting heart rate and weight and an increase in oxygen saturation level (SpO2) from 83% to 96%, indicating that Tai Chi and Qigong may have the potential to restore lung function. Conclusion: Thus, we propose that Tai Chi and Qigong can be an easily accessible, low-intensity, and cost-effective technique to increase lung function and quality of life in patients with long-haul COVID-19.
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