Robert W McGee*
Received: July 22, 2024; Published: August 02, 2024
*Corresponding author: Robert W McGee, Broadwell College of Business and Economics, Fayetteville State University, North Carolina, USA
DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2024.57.009080
This article serves two purposes, first, to demonstrate how artificial intelligence can be used in medical practice to facilitate the research process, and second, to show how tai chi and qigong can be used to treat ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Tai chi and qigong are traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) techniques that have been used for hundreds or thousands of years to treat a wide range of ailments. This article takes the reader through the process of searching for and finding relevant literature on how these two tools of Chinese medicine can be used to treat ankylosing spondylitis using Microsoft Copilot, one of the more popular AI chatbots. A similar methodology can be used to find medical information on a wide range of other medical topics. This methodology can also be used by scholars in many divergent disciplines to find useful information on whatever topic they are researching.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Tai Chi; Qigong; Traditional Chinese Medicine; TCM; Ankylosing Spondylitis
The present article serves two purposes, first, to demonstrate how artificial intelligence can be used in medical practice to facilitate the research process, and second, to show how tai chi and qigong can be used to treat ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Both tai chi and qigong are traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) techniques that have been used for centuries to treat a wide range of ailments [1-44]. In recent decades their use in Western medical practices has become increasingly popular. They have several common features. Both involve breathing, physical movement and a form of meditation. Both are safe, in the same sense that breathing and gentle movement are safe. Both generate the body’s natural healing powers. There are no discernible adverse side-effects if performed properly. There are also some differences between tai chi and qigong. As a general rule, qigong exercises are easier and faster to learn than tai chi, which takes years to learn well. However, studies have shown that those who practice tai chi do not have to spend years practicing before receiving health benefits. Studies have found that significant benefits can be had after just a few weeks or months of practice. Another difference is that tai chi is also a martial art, whereas qigong is not. Tai chi consists of a series of sequential movements, much like a Japanese kata or a Korean poomsae. Although qigong can consist of a series of sequential exercises [5-7,45-54], having a particular sequence or pattern is not necessary.
This study focuses on how tai chi and qigong can be used to treat ankylosing spondylitis. The first step is to find prior studies that have been done on this topic. The usual way for medical practitioners to begin such a search would be to go to PubMed [55] or a similar medical database to search for relevant articles and studies. We will take a different approach. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used with increasing frequency in recent years to conduct research in a wide range of disciplines, including medicine [56-85]. One advantage of using AI as the initial step in the search process is because it is a fast and efficient way of finding relevant information. If further information is needed, it is still possible to consult a medical database, but doing so may not be necessary after using AI to generate basic information, depending on what kind of information the researcher wants to retrieve. However, there are some drawbacks to using AI in research. For one, the results obtained may be defective. Prior studies have found that AI-generated research can be faulty [86-90] or even biased [91-99]. Thus, one must check for accuracy for sources that are generated using AI. There are a number of AI bots that can be used to search for medical and other studies. The one used in the present study is Microsoft Copilot [100]. Copilot was chosen because it is easy to use and free. The first step in an AI search is to formulate an instruction for the chatbot to use. The initial instruction is given below.
Instruction
What is ankylosing spondylitis?
Copilot Reply
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), also known as axial spondyloarthritis, is an inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine. Here are the key points:
Symptoms:
• Back pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning and after periods of inactivity.
• Neck pain and fatigue.
• Symptoms may worsen, improve, or stop at irregular intervals.
• Inflammation can also occur in other parts of the body, most commonly the eyes.
Causes:
• The specific cause is unknown, but genetic factors play a role.
• People with the HLA-B27 gene are at a higher risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis [101].
Treatment
• While there’s no cure, treatments can lessen symptoms and possibly slow disease progression.
• Medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and biologics), physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments are commonly used.
• Remember to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms related to ankylosing spondylitis, especially if you have low back or buttock pain that improves with exercise and worsens with rest [101]. If you have any concerns, consult a healthcare provider.
Author Comments
Copilot did a good job of providing basic information. Although it only gave one official citation [101], it also provided citations to four additional sources [102-105], which can be helpful for medical professionals who wish to explore the topic further. The next instruction is to write an essay discussing how tai chi and qigong have been used to treat ankylosing spondylitis. It would also be a good idea to ask the chatbot to provide citations, keeping in mind that any citations given need to be checked for accuracy, since prior studies have found that AI-generated citations can be inaccurate of biased.
Instruction
Write an essay discussing how tai chi and qigong have been used to treat ankylosing spondylitis. Provide citations.
Copilot Reply
The Role of Tai Chi and Qigong in Treating Ankylosing Spondylitis: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Traditional Chinese practices such as Tai Chi and Qigong have gained attention for their potential benefits in managing this condition. This essay explores how these practices have been used to treat AS, supported by relevant studies and findings.
Tai Chi and Its Benefits for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art, involves slow, deliberate movements combined with deep breathing and meditation. It has been shown to improve flexibility, balance, and overall physical function, making it a suitable exercise for individuals with AS. A study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that Tai Chi significantly improved disease activity and flexibility in AS patients. Participants who practiced Tai Chi for 60 minutes twice weekly over eight weeks showed notable improvements compared to a control group [106]. The gentle, flowing movements of Tai Chi help reduce stiffness and enhance joint mobility, which are critical for managing AS symptoms. Moreover, Tai Chi’s emphasis on mindfulness and relaxation can help alleviate the psychological burden of chronic pain. Regular practice has been associated with reduced levels of depression and anxiety, which are common among AS patients [107]. This holistic approach addresses both the physical and mental aspects of the disease, promoting overall well-being.
Qigong and Its Therapeutic Effects on Ankylosing Spondylitis: Qigong, another traditional Chinese practice, focuses on cultivating and balancing the body’s vital energy, or “qi,” through coordinated movements, breath control, and meditation. Like Tai Chi, Qigong has been found to offer several benefits for individuals with AS.Research indicates that Qigong can improve balance, flexibility, and quality of life in AS patients. A study published in BMJ Open highlighted that traditional Qigong exercises, such as Baduanjin, effectively reduced morning stiffness, fatigue, and pain in AS patients [108]. These exercises integrate breathing techniques with physical movements, promoting blood circulation and reducing inflammation, which are crucial for managing AS symptoms. Additionally, Qigong’s meditative aspect helps in stress reduction and emotional regulation. By fostering a sense of inner calm and focus, Qigong can mitigate the psychological impact of living with a chronic condition like AS [107]. This dual benefit of physical and mental health makes Qigong a valuable complementary therapy for AS.
Conclusion: Tai Chi and Qigong offer promising complementary therapies for managing ankylosing spondylitis. Their gentle, mindful movements improve physical function, reduce pain and stiffness, and enhance overall quality of life. While more extensive, randomized controlled trials are needed to fully endorse these practices, current evidence supports their beneficial role in treating AS. Incorporating Tai Chi and Qigong into a comprehensive treatment plan can provide holistic benefits, addressing both the physical and psychological challenges of ankylosing spondylitis.
Author Comments
AI wrote a good, basic essay. One of the three sources given was to a medical journal. The other two sources were publications that were aimed at a general audience. Prior studies have found that similar searches and methodologies have resulted in a similar mix of professional medical journal citations and citations to popular press articles. When that is the case, it may be necessary to enhance the literature search by going to one or more medical databases, depending on whether the information given in the original search has proven to be sufficient for the researcher’s needs. Sometimes the AI bot provides suggestions for similar related searches. That is what happened in this case. The bot suggested requesting more information. The following instruction does that.
Instruction
Yes, tell me more about specific tai chi exercises.
Copilot Reply
Sure! Here are a few Tai Chi exercises that are particularly beneficial for improving flexibility, balance, and overall well-being:
Commencing Form: This is the starting position for many Tai Chi routines. It involves standing with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and arms relaxed at your sides. Slowly raise your arms to shoulder height while inhaling, then lower them while exhaling. This movement helps to center your mind and body.
Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane: This exercise mimics the motion of stroking a horse’s mane. Start with your feet shoulder-width apart. Step forward with one foot while simultaneously moving your arms in a sweeping motion, one arm forward and the other back. This movement helps improve coordination and balance.
White Crane Spreads Its Wings: Begin with your feet together and arms at your sides. Step to the side with one foot while raising your arms, one above your head and the other extended to the side. This exercise enhances balance and stretches the upper body.
Brush Knee and Twist Step: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Step forward with one foot while brushing your knee with the opposite hand and extending the other arm forward. This movement helps with flexibility and coordination.
Wave Hands Like Clouds: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent. Move your hands in a circular, wave-like motion while shifting your weight from one foot to the other. This exercise promotes relaxation and improves coordination.
Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg: This balance exercise involves standing on one leg while raising the opposite knee and extending the corresponding arm forward. It helps improve balance and leg strength.
Repulse Monkey: Start with your feet shoulder-width apart. Step backward with one foot while pushing your hands forward in a repelling motion. This exercise enhances coordination and balance.
Tips for Practicing Tai Chi
Start Slowly: Begin with a few basic movements and gradually increase the complexity as you become more comfortable.
Focus on Breathing: Coordinate your movements with deep, slow breaths to enhance relaxation and mindfulness.
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key to experiencing the benefits of Tai Chi. Aim for at least 20-30 minutes a few times a week.
Seek Guidance: Consider joining a Tai Chi class or following instructional videos to ensure proper technique.
Would you like more detailed instructions on any of these exercises or information on how to find a Tai Chi class near you?
Author Comments
The bot provided some additional useful general information. However, it did not provide any citations to where the reader could obtain additional instruction or information, but that is not a problem. An internet search for the terms and names of the exercise postures given would lead to videos that show and explain how the various movements can be performed. Youtube would be a good place to start if one wants to find videos about tai chi movements. The movements suggested above are all basic postures that are used in many tai chi forms or sets. There are five major tai chi styles. The most popular tai chi style is Yang style. This style is practiced more frequently than any other tai chi style. It is also the most frequently used style for medical studies that utilize tai chi postures [109]. Of the various Yang style sets, the Yang 24 form is the most frequently used form [109]. This form is also used by tai chi players in tournaments. There are a variety of ways to find tai chi classes. Some schools that teach yoga or Pilates also teach tai chi. Some schools of Chinese martial arts also teach tai chi. Copilot asked if the reader wanted to learn more about qigong exercises. It was given the following reply.
Instruction
Yes, tell me more about qigong exercises.
Copilot Reply
Certainly! Here are some popular Qigong exercises that can help improve flexibility, balance, and overall well-being:
Baduanjin (Eight Pieces of Brocade): This is one of the most well-known Qigong routines, consisting of eight distinct exercises designed to enhance health and vitality. Each movement targets different parts of the body, promoting flexibility and strength. For example:
Two Hands Hold Up the Heavens: This exercise involves raising your arms above your head while standing on your toes, stretching the entire body.
Drawing the Bow to Shoot the Hawk: Mimics the action of drawing a bow, which helps to open the chest and strengthen the arms.
Five Animal Frolics (Wu Qin Xi): Inspired by the movements of animals, this routine includes exercises that mimic the tiger, deer, bear, monkey, and crane. Each animal’s movements are designed to improve different aspects of physical and mental health. For instance:
Tiger Frolic: Involves powerful, stretching movements that enhance strength and flexibility.
Crane Frolic: Focuses on balance and grace, with gentle, flowing movements.
Six Healing Sounds (Liu Zi Jue)
This practice combines specific sounds with movements to promote internal organ health and emotional balance. Each sound corresponds to a different organ and helps to release tension and improve function. For example:
“Xu” Sound: Associated with the liver, this sound is made while performing a gentle twisting motion to release anger and improve liver function.
“He” Sound: Linked to the heart, this sound is made while performing a calming movement to reduce anxiety and enhance heart health.
Standing Meditation (Zhan Zhuang): This exercise involves standing still in a specific posture, focusing on breath and body alignment. It helps to build internal strength, improve posture, and enhance mental clarity. A common posture is:
Embracing the Tree: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and arms rounded as if hugging a tree. Focus on deep, slow breathing.
Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi: A set of 18 movements that combine Tai Chi and Qigong principles. These exercises are designed to improve flexibility, balance, and relaxation. Some movements include:
Waving Hands in the Clouds: Involves gentle, side-to-side arm movements while shifting weight from one foot to the other.
Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane: Mimics the motion of stroking a horse’s mane, enhancing coordination and balance.
Tips for Practicing Qigong:Start with Simple Movements: Begin with basic exercises and gradually progress to more complex routines.
Focus on Breathing: Coordinate your movements with deep, slow breaths to enhance relaxation and energy flow.
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes a few times a week.
Seek Guidance: Consider joining a Qigong class or following instructional videos to ensure proper technique.
Would you like more detailed instructions on any specific Qigong exercise or information on how to find a Qigong class near you?
Author Comments
Copilot gave some excellent basic information about qigong exercises, which the reader could follow up on if interested. Although it did not give specific citations, it did provide a list of suggested readings for readers who wanted further information [110-115]. A Youtube search would quickly find many relevant videos that show, and even in some cases provide instructions on how these exercises should be performed. Some qigong exercise sets even have instructional booklets and DVDs to provide detailed instructions [45-53], and it is even possible to enrolled in online courses that teach many qigong exercises. Copilot made another search suggestion, which is encapsulated in the instruction below [116].
Instruction
What are the potential risks of practicing tai chi or qigong with AS?
Copilot Reply
Practicing Qigong can offer many benefits for individuals with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), but there are also potential risks to be aware of. Here are some considerations:
Potential Risks:
Overexertion
• Risk: Pushing too hard or performing movements too vigorously can lead to muscle strain or joint pain.
• Mitigation: Start with gentle movements and gradually increase intensity. Listen to your body and avoid any movements that cause discomfort.
Improper Technique
Risk: Incorrect posture or movements can exacerbate pain or lead to injury.
Mitigation: Seek guidance from a qualified instructor to ensure proper technique. Consider attending classes or following reputable instructional videos.
Balance Issues
Risk: Some Qigong exercises involve balance, which can be challenging for individuals with AS and may increase the risk of falls.
Mitigation: Practice balance exercises near a stable support, such as a wall or chair, to prevent falls.
Fatigue
Risk: Overdoing it can lead to fatigue, which is a common symptom in AS patients.
Mitigation: Pace yourself and take breaks as needed. Focus on shorter, more frequent practice sessions rather than long, strenuous ones.
Joint Stress
Risk: Certain movements may place undue stress on inflamed joints.
Mitigation: Modify exercises to reduce joint stress. Avoid high-impact movements and focus on gentle, flowing exercises.
Tips for Safe Practice
Consult Your Doctor: Before starting any new exercise regimen, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for your specific condition.
Warm-Up and Cool Down: Always start with a gentle warm-up to prepare your body and end with a cool-down to relax your muscles.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your practice to stay hydrated.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds to different exercises and adjust accordingly. If you experience pain, stop and rest. By being mindful of these potential risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can safely enjoy the benefits of Qigong while managing ankylosing spondylitis.
Would you like more information on specific modifications for Qigong exercises or tips on finding a qualified instructor?
Author Comments
Again, Copilot provided good, useful information, although it did not provide citations. The suggestions it provided were based on common sense and are similar to what most doctors or physical therapists would mention in discussions with patients. Copilot also asked whether the reader would like additional information on modifications for qigong exercises or tips on finding a qualified instructor. The author did not see any need to continue asking Copilot to generate further information. Readers can do that for themselves, if they like. Anyone who wants to incorporate qigong exercises into their training regimen can ask an instructor about modifications to the exercises. This is especially true for older tai chi or qigong players, who might have movement or flexibility problems. A good instructor will be able to provide the necessary information and suggestions. Which brings us to the next point – how to find a good local tai chi or qigong instructor. Various tai chi and qigong organizations have a list of qualified practitioners and instructors on their websites. The problem with those lists is that they often list instructors who are hundreds or thousands of miles away from the person who wants to find an instructor. Finding a good local instructor via this route is hit and miss. A better approach would be to do an internet search, using key words such as tai chi or qigong. One could also ask Copilot, of course. Another option would be to find someone who teaches kung fu or other Chinese martial arts. Kung fu instructors often also teach tai chi and/or qigong. Below are some organizations that might also provide useful information.
Organizations
American Academy for Medical Qigong. http://qigongmedicine.org/
American Qigong Association. http://eastwestqi.com/who-we-are/links/aqa/
American Tai Chi and Qigong Association. http://www.americantaichi.org/
British Health Qigong Association. www.healthqigong.org.uk
Center for Taiji & Qigong Studies. http://centerfortaiji.com/
The Chi Center. https://chicenter.com/
Energy Arts. https://www.energyarts.com/
European Sports Qigong Association. https://www.qigongdeportivo.es/sportsqigong/
Flowing Zen Qigong & Tai Chi. https://flowingzen.com/
Holden Qigong. https://www.holdenqigong.com/
Hong Kong Tai Chi & Qigong. https://www.hongkongtaichi.org/
The Institute for Rehabilitative Qigong & Tai Chi. https://instituteforrehabilitativeqigongandtaichi.org/
Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi. http://www.instituteofintegralqigongandtaichi.org/
Instituto Qigong Barcelona https://institutoqigong.com/
International Health Qigong Federation. www.ihqfo.org/en/
International Medical Tai Chi and Qigong Association. http://www.imtqa.org/
International Qi Gong Association https://www.qigongassociation.org/
Lin Housheng’s Qigong. https://www.linhousheng.com/
National Qigong Association. https://www.nqa.org/
Qi Journal. https://www.qi-journal.com/
Qigong Awareness. https://qigongawareness.com/
Qigong and Daoist Training Center. https://qigongdragon.com/
Qigong Global Summit. https://qigongglobalsummit.com/
Qigong Institute. https://www.qigonginstitute.org/
The Qigong Research Society https://www.qigongresearchsociety.com/
Robert Peng. https://www.robertpeng.com/
Spring Forest Qigong. https://www.springforestqigong.com/
Tai Chi Healthways. https://www.taichihealthways.com/
Tai Chi, Qigong & Feng Shui Institute. https://taichi18.com/
Tse Qigong Centre. http://www.tseqigongcentre.com/
United States Health Qigong Association. http://healthqigong.org/
World Tai Chi & Qigong Day. https://www.worldtaichiday.org/
YOQI Yoga & Qigong. https://www.yoqi.com/