The ancient art of Tai Ji may have a new application - Parkinson's disease patients. Numerous studies in the past few years have demonstrated Tai Ji's effectiveness in reducing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's is a disease that affects nerve cells - called neurons - in the region of the brain controlling muscle movement. Those suffering from Parkinson's disease may experience difficulty walking, muscle rigidity, trembling, and problems with coordination. The disease is progressive - meaning its symptoms become progressively worse over time.

Originally developed in China over 1,000 years ago, Tai Ji is an internal Chinese martial art practiced to increase health, balance, and longevity. Tai Ji is characterized by the use of leverage through the joints based on coordination and relaxation into the movements, rather than muscle tension. While also used in self-defense, Tai Ji has innumerable applications, including relieving the physical effects of stress on the body and mind, improving strength and flexibility, increasing internal circulation, and promoting relaxation.

The world of medicine is looking towards non-traditional therapies to treat the various aspects of Parkinson's disease and side effects of treatment. "There is a lot of interest in alternative therapies for Parkinson's disease, but not enough information," said Lyvonne Carreiro, a Parkinson's disease care coordinator at the University of Florida in a 2002 Reuters article. "Patients should let their physicians know if they're interested in such treatments."