Study Overview
The TAICHIKNEE study is an embedded, pragmatic randomized trial comparing the effects of a 3-month, web-based Tai Chi program with routine care for knee osteoarthritis (OA). Conducted across four leading healthcare systems, the goal of this trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of remote Tai Chi to treat knee pain in adults with knee osteoarthritis. The main questions the trial aims to answer are:
- Compared to routine care, will patients with knee OA receiving remote Tai Chi exhibit greater improvement in knee-related pain and function, pain interference, and health-related quality of life at 3 months?
- Does remote Tai Chi decrease healthcare utilization and analgesic use over the one-year study period?
The Problem
Knee OA is a chronic condition and a leading cause of disability, affecting over 32.5 million people in the U.S. As many patients experience significant pain and functional limitations, the demand for effective treatments continues to rise. However, the long-term use of medications is often limited by side effects, and comorbidities make it difficult to select appropriate therapies for older adults. This has resulted in a critical shortage of safe, scalable treatments for knee OA.
Our Approach: remote Tai Chi for Knee OA
Tai Chi, a centuries-old practice that combines physical movement, breathing techniques, and mental focus, has shown promise in reducing pain and improving quality of life for people with knee OA. Recognized by the American College of Rheumatology as a recommended intervention, Tai Chi offers an effective, low-impact alternative to drug therapies.
Through this trial, we will deliver Tai Chi remotely, using web-based platforms to reach participants across multiple healthcare systems. This study is the first of its kind to rigorously assess the real-world effectiveness of remote Tai Chi for knee OA and its potential for widespread implementation.