In this podcast we interview Carole Edin, an Occupational Therapist based in Leeds. Carole implements tai chi and qigong movements into her clinical practice with patients in a local chronic pain service.

1. Chronic Pain Management Approach: - Focus on self-management and self-compassion - Emphasize pacing activities and avoiding "boom and bust" cycles - Incorporate sleep hygiene, diet, and nutrition advice - Address emotional well-being and stress management

2. Introduction of Tai Chi in Pain Management: - Present Tai Chi as "enjoyable movement" rather than exercise to reduce fear-avoidance - Start with seated movements, progressing slowly to standing - Emphasize gentle, slow motions and individual adaptation - Incorporate relaxation and tension-spotting techniques before and after practice

3. Benefits of Tai Chi for Chronic Pain Patients: - Improves relaxation and stress reduction - Enhances mobility and function - Potential for medication reduction - Particularly beneficial for conditions like fibromyalgia

4. Implementation Strategies: - Tailor approaches to individual patients and their specific conditions - Use visualization techniques for patients unable to perform physical movements - Introduce Tai Chi gradually, emphasizing regular practice over duration - Combine Tai Chi with other pain management strategies (described as a "jigsaw puzzle" approach)

5. Group vs. Individual Sessions: - Adapt instructions for group settings, encouraging individual modifications - Emphasize non-competition and personal progress

6. Practitioner Benefits: - Potential for personal health improvements, including coordination - Use as a self-care tool for healthcare professionals

7. Evidence-Based Practice: - Incorporate research on Tai Chi's benefits, particularly for conditions like fibromyalgia - Consider Tai Chi as part of a multidisciplinary approach to pain management

8. Patient-Centered Outcomes: - Focus on improving quality of life and expanding activities despite pain - Encourage reintroduction of enjoyable activities and socialization

9. Professional Development: - Chronic pain management offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities - Continuous learning due to varied patient presentations and conditions

Health professionals should consider integrating Tai Chi as a complementary approach in chronic pain management, focusing on gradual introduction, individualisation, and combining it with other evidence-based strategies for optimal patient outcomes.

Bonus downloads kindly provided by Carole.

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Would you like to find out more about our class leading CPD course for health professionals: Tai Chi for Therapists.

We created this course for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice.

If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional visit our course page to find out more.

We look forward to seeing you,

Phil & Helen

Website: www.taichifortherapists.com