Effects of Different Traditional Chinese Exercises in the Treatment of Essential Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

This systematic review and network meta-analysis examined the effects of traditional Chinese exercises (TCEs) on essential hypertension, including 29 randomized controlled trials with 2,268 patients. The study found that combining TCEs, such as Tai Chi and Wuqinxi, with conventional antihypertensive medication significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to medication alone. Tai Chi was most effective for lowering systolic blood pressure, while Wuqinxi was most effective for diastolic blood pressure. The study suggests that TCEs may improve blood pressure control through mechanisms like increased nitric oxide production and decreased endothelin-1 levels, though the evidence quality varied from very low to moderate. Further well-designed randomized studies are recommended to confirm these findings.