Health Qigong/Tai Chi -AF Project 3.2
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Adaptation and Implementation of Health Qigong and Tai Chi Exercises on Quality of Life and Physical Functioning in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Feasibility Study
IRAS ID
286914
Contact name
Nefyn Williams
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Liverpool
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN16703816
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 4 months, 31 days
Research summary
Tai Chi and Qigong traditional Chinese exercises are thought to be beneficial in many health conditions including heart conditions, however, there is lack of studies showing the effect of these exercises on patients with atrial fibrillation (the most common irregular heart rhythm). Therefore, the aim of this research is: To assess the feasibility of a future randomised controlled trial of Tai Chi and Qigong for patients with atrial fibrillation in terms of patients’ acceptability and capability to continue the programme and their satisfaction with it, in addition to evaluating health-related quality of life and physical functioning.
The study will be conducted in three phases, Feasibility study with a randomized controlled design comparing two groups: intervention group (Tai Chi/Qigong) versus usual care (no Tai Chi/Qigong); an embedded qualitative study, to further explore patient acceptability and the appropriateness of the Tai Chi/Qigong programme, and to determine if further refinement to the intervention is required; and a process evaluation of the intervention to evaluate the fidelity of the intervention implementation.
Approximately 106 participants will be recruited from primary care. The study will take place in the community centres and/or online via the virtual platform (Zoom). The participants will be randomly assigned to either control (usual care) or intervention group (Tai Chi/Qigong).
The exercise group, will learn a Tai Chi and Qigong routine, led by a qualified instructor. All the movements will be carried out according to the participants' capability.
The participants in both groups may be interviewed online for process evaluation requirements; and 10 participants from the intervention group for the embedded qualitative study.
The primary outcome will be the recruitment rate and retention rate. Secondary outcomes are health-related quality of life; physical functioning and patient satisfaction with the intervention.REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/NW/0183
Date of REC Opinion
4 Aug 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion