Challenges Inherent to T'ai Chi Research: Part I—T'ai Chi as a Complex Multicomponent Intervention

摘要

In this, the first of 2 companion papers, we present a framework for viewing t’ai chi as a complex, multicomponentnintervention that integrates numerous physical, cognitive, and ritualistic components. We discuss hownthe richness and complexity of t’ai chi poses challenges related to the traditional distinction between specificnversus nonspecific effects, the development and interpretation of valid sham controls, and more generally, tonthe reductionist causal approach of attributing observed outcomes to single, independent component factors.nWe also discuss parallels between t’ai chi research and the emerging field of whole systems research, and hownt’ai chi research may benefit from the use of an ecologic framework. In a second, companion paper, we discussnadditional challenges inherent in defining the t’ai chi intervention itself, and more comprehensively outlinenthe benefits and limitations of commonly used clinical research designs to evaluate the efficacy and safetynof t’ai chi.