Effects of Qi-therapy on blood pressure, pain and psychological symptoms in the elderly: a randomized controlled pilot trial*1 M. S. Lee1, 2, J. -W. Jang3, H. -S. Jang4 and S. -R. Moon1, 5 1 Center for Integrative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Wonkwang University, Iksan, South Korea 2 Professional Graduate School of Oriental Medicine, Wonkwang University, Iksan, South Korea 3 Division of Social Welfare & Public Health Administration, Social Sciences College, Wonkwang University, Iksan, South Korea 4 Department of Nursing, Wonkwang Health Science College, Iksan, South Korea 5 Department of Radiation Oncology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, South Korea Abstract Recently, we reported that Qi-therapy may be beneficial in reducing negative psychological symptoms and increasing melatonin levels, neutrophil function and natural killer cell cytotoxicity in young subjects. However, there is little scientific evidence of its efficacy in elderly subjects. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effects of Qi-therapy on anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain and blood pressure in elderly subjects. Ninety-four elderly subjects were randomly assigned to either Qi-therapy (n=47) or mimic therapy (n=47) groups. Both groups received a 10-min intervention period once using similar procedures. The Qi-therapy group exhibited greater reduction in anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain level and blood pressure compared to the placebo group; the difference in anxiety was significant (P=0.014). These results suggest that even a brief application of Qi-therapy may exert a positive psychological and physiological effect. However, further research is necessary in order to fully understand the long-term impact of Qi-therapy on psychological health and the cardiovascular system. Complementary Therapies in Medicine Volume 11, Issue 3 , September 2003, Pages 159-164 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.