Voices Of Va Research

Mike Richman of VA Research Communications interviews Dr. Barbara Niles, a research psychologist in the National Center for PTSD at the VA Boston Healthcare System. Niles is leading a trial that is examining whether tai chi, an ancient Chinese mind-body therapy, can help ease the chronic pain and fatigue symptoms that are common among Veterans with Gulf War illness. Most of the treatments have been pharmaceutical. Tai chi is a graceful form of exercise that improves balance and coordination skills, with slow and deliberate balletic body movements.