Twenty-six studies were included in the review: nine RCTs (n=1,087), 13 Non-randomised controlled and non-controlled studies (n=622) and four observational studies (n=226). Treatment duration ranged from eight weeks to three years (where specified).
Four of the nine RCTs received an A score and two received a B. Eleven of the 13 non-randomised controlled and non-controlled studies received a B, one received an A and one received a C. One of the four observational studies received an A and three received a B. Jadad scores for RCTs ranged from 1 to 4.
Patients with hypertension (eight studies): All eight studies (three RCTs) reported statistically significant within-group reductions in mean blood pressure following t'ai chi. Changes in the t'ai chi groups ranged from -7 to -32mmHg (systolic) and -2.4 to -18mmHg (diastolic).
Patients with cardiovascular conditions (three studies): One RCT found significant reductions of both systolic (-3mmHg) and diastolic (-2mmHg) blood pressure.
Patients without cardiovascular conditions (and healthy populations) (15 studies): The range of blood pressure reductions reported was -4 to -18mmHg (systolic) and -2.3 to -7.5mmHg (diastolic).
No adverse effects were reported.