Reid-Arndt, S.A., Matsuda, S., & Cox, C.R. (2012). Tai chi effects on neuropsychological, emotional, and physical functioning following cancer treatment: A pilot study. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 18, 26–30.

To examine the effects of tai chi on neuropsychological, psychological, and physical health of female cancer survivors  

Women participated in an hour-long, twice-weekly Yang-style tai chi course for 10 weeks. They underwent testing prior to the course and then one month following the test.

• A total of 23 participants enrolled in the study.  
• The women's average age was 62.3 years (SD = 10.8 years).
• The sample was 100% female.
• The women had been diagnosed with breast (n = 16), ovarian (n = 3), or endometrial (n = 1) cancer; NHL (n = 2); or CLL (n = 1).
• All had received chemotherapy at least 12 months prior.
• On average, the women had complete 16.4 years (SD = 2.1 years) of education.
   

• Mutli-site 
• Mid-Western city
   

Patients were undergoing long-term follow-up.

Pilot study

• Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (memory)    
• Trail Making Test A
• Trail Making Test B (executive functioning)
• Stroop Test (executive functioning)
• Oral Word Association Test
• Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Third Edition (WAIS-III) Digit Span and Digit Symbol
• Multiple Abilities Self-Report Questionnaire (MASQ)

Statistical significant changes were seen in the scores of immediate memory (Rey trial 1, Rey trials 1–5, Logical Memory), delayed memory (logical memory II), verbal fluency (COWAT), attention (Trails A, Digit Symbol) and executive functioning (Trails B, Stroop Test). The Reliable Change Index analyses did not meet the criteria for reliable change as a group. Self-reported cognitive functioning improved for verbal and visual memory in the MASQ (p < 0.05). No significant changes were seen in fatigue. Significant improvements were seen in multiple measures of balance (p < 0.002).

Tai chi may promote gains in cognitive and physical functioning in cancer survivors.

• The sample was small at less than 30 participants.
• It was a well-educated group, all female, with a range of treatment and length from last treatment)
• No control group was included.
• Classes were taught in a group setting, so the group support and interaction may have influenced the findings, rather than the tai chi itself.

This is a small pilot study, but it suggests that tai chi may be helpful in improving neurocognitive functioning. Tai chi is a relatively easy exercise to perform for most patients and is readily available in most areas. Further research is needed to verify the benefits of tai chi on cognitive dysfunction.