Overview
This study will combine brain imaging and neuromodulation tools to investigate the underlying neurobiological mechanisms of exercises. The findings will enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying mind-body exercise and facilitate the development of new pain management approaches.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Volunteers 45-75 years of age
- Meet the Classification Criteria of the American College of Rheumatology for osteoarthritis of the right and/or left knee for at least the past 3 months;
- Physically able to participate in the BDJ and stretching control education programs
- Willing to complete the 12-week study
- Can participate in MRI scan
- Ability to read and understand English; English can be a second language provided that the patient feels he or she can understand all the questions used in the assessment measures
Exclusion Criteria:
- Has performed BDJ, Tai Chi, Yoga, other mind-body intervention, physical therapy, or routine exercise (running, cycling, etc.) regularly in the past year
- Serious medical conditions limiting ability of patient to participate in the study, such as symptomatic cardiovascular disease, symptomatic pulmonary disease requiring supplemental oxygen, uncontrolled metabolic diseases, severe renal and liver disease
- Has had intra-articular steroid injections or reconstructive surgery in the prior 3 months on the affected knee; any intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections in the previous 6 months
- Patient Mini-Mental Status Examination score below 24 [293]
- Unable to walk without a cane or other assistive device
- The intent to undergo surgery during the time of involvement in the study
- Plan to permanently relocate from the region during the trial period