A Sample Protocol for Using Tai Chi and Qigong to Treat Back Pain: An Application of Artificial Intelligence to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Abstract

Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a major global cause of disability. Tai Chi and Qigong have demonstrated moderate-to-large effects on pain and function in CLBP, yet detailed, evidence-based, patient-tolerant protocols remain scarce.

Objective: To utilize artificial intelligence (Grok 4, xAI) combined with human expertise to develop and propose a practical, back-pain-specific Eight Brocades Qigong protocol and an 8-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) for its evaluation.

Methods: Grok 4 was provided with current epidemiological, biomechanical, and clinical evidence on CLBP and Eight Brocades Qigong. The AI generated a full protocol, which was subsequently edited for clinical applicability, safety, and tolerability. A single-blind RCT design with 40 participants (20 intervention, 20 active control) was outlined.

Results: The final protocol is a 20-minute, 3×/week program emphasizing six postures (most notably “Two Hands Hold the Feet”), performed for 6–8 repetitions each. Two higher-effort, less back-specific postures are omitted to improve adherence and reduce fatigue. Expected outcomes based on prior meta-analyses include a 10–15% reduction in Oswestry Disability Index and 15–20 mm decrease in VAS pain.

Conclusion: This study illustrates a replicable AI-assisted methodology for rapidly converting traditional Chinese movement practices into modern, evidence-informed therapeutic protocols. The proposed shortened Eight Brocades program is safe, feasible, and optimized for CLBP, and is ready for formal efficacy testing.