Effects and optimal dosage of Tai Chi for chronic ankle instability: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Study Summary

9 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 374 patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI) were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing Tai Chi exercise with conventional rehabilitation, balance training, or other control interventions. Pooled outcomes included Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) scores, anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral balance, and Unipedal Stance Test (UST) performance. Tai Chi significantly improved CAIT scores and posteromedial balance compared with control interventions, while improvements in anterior balance, posterolateral balance, and UST performance were not statistically significant. Subgroup analyses suggested that longer intervention durations and sessions produced more consistent improvements. These findings suggested that Tai Chi may be a beneficial rehabilitation strategy for improving ankle function and dynamic balance in patients with CAI.