Baduanjin exercise alleviates anxiety, depressive symptoms, and improves sleep quality and quality of life in patients with primary glaucoma
An 8-week Baduanjin exercise intervention (5 sessions per week, 30 min each) significantly improved anxiety (HADS-A), depressive symptoms (HADS-D), and sleep quality (PSQI) compared to routine care in patients with primary glaucoma. Benefits were more pronounced in patients with higher baseline symptom levels. The intervention also improved domain-specific quality of life, particularly glare/dark adaptation and outdoor mobility.
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Baduanjin exercise alleviates anxiety, depressive symptoms, and improves sleep quality and quality of life in patients with primary glaucoma The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 44/100 (low).
The Claim
Baduanjin exercise alleviates anxiety, depressive symptoms, and improves sleep quality and quality of life in patients with primary glaucoma
This conclusion is most relevant to: 112 patients with primary glaucoma (102 completed) from the Ophthalmology Department of Chengdu Third People's Hospital.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Effects of Baduanjin on anxiety, depressive symptoms, and quality of life in patients with primary glaucoma: A randomized controlled trial. (Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Baduanjin combines physical movement with mindful breathing
- ▸Reduces stress and promotes relaxation
- ▸Improves psychological well-being and sleep quality
- ▸Alleviates anxiety and depressive symptoms and enhances daily functional adaptation
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸112 patients with primary glaucoma (102 completed) from the Ophthalmology Department of Chengdu Third People's Hospital
Recommended Dose
30 minutes per session, 5 sessions per week for 8 weeks
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Single-center study may limit generalizability
- ▸No blinding of participants or instructors due to the nature of the exercise intervention
- ▸Short follow-up period (8 weeks) without long-term outcome assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Baduanjin?▼
Baduanjin is a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise involving slow, coordinated movements and breathing, often described as 'Eight Brocades'.
How long did the Baduanjin intervention last?▼
The intervention lasted 8 weeks, with five 30-minute sessions per week.
What outcomes improved in the Baduanjin group?▼
Anxiety, depressive symptoms, sleep quality, and quality of life (specifically glare/dark adaptation and outdoor mobility) improved significantly compared to the control group.
Was the effect of Baduanjin the same for all patients?▼
No, the benefits were more pronounced in patients with higher baseline levels of anxiety, depression, or sleep problems.
References
- 1.Zeng Z, Li X, Ma X, Guo J, Qin L. “Effects of Baduanjin on anxiety, depressive symptoms, and quality of life in patients with primary glaucoma: A randomized controlled trial..” Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 2026. PMID: 42431068 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2026.102077