Iwas already taking anti-inflammatories. I was working with a physical therapist. I stretched and exercised regularly. What else could I do to relieve my chronic low back pain?
My doctor trotted out the usual suggestions — increase your meds, get an injection, undergo surgery.
But then he recommended something unexpected: tai chi. He said it’s one of the most effective options for treating osteoarthritis pain like mine — affecting more than 80 percent of people over age 55.
As a health journalist, I was skeptical. After all, tai chi is an ancient Chinese folk practice, using an unmeasurable force called “qi” (pronounced “chee”) to balance your “bodily meridians.” To me, qi seemed as authentic as a $5 Rolex.