The effects of traditional Chinese exercise on hypertension: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND: Several studies have reported the benefits of traditional Chinese exercises (TCEs) on hypertension; however, a consensus regarding the effectiveness and safety of TCEs for patients with hypertension has not been reached. METHODS AND RESULTS: Only randomized controlled trials were included in our study. A total of 16 articles involving 1164 patients with hypertension met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that TCEs can reduce BP, blood lipids (including total cholesterol and triglyceride levels) and endothelin levels and improves quality of life in hypertensive patients, however, the low-quality of the included studies made the results be of questionable significance. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this review suggest that there is no firm evidence to support the objective effectiveness and safety of TCEs for hypertension because of the poor quality of the studies. Well-designed, randomized placebo-controlled trial with objective outcome measures should be conducted in the future.