Can I practise Tai Chi with these conditions?

Question

I am a diabetic and have slight curvature/arthritis of the spine which results in nerves becoming impinged with certain movements. I have considered some of Dr Paul Lam's DVD's, but I don't know what to start with and could I even practise it safely?

Answer 1

When you practise things like taichi, yoga, any teacher will tell you to do only what is comfortable. Like anything, warmup and proceed gently and as soon as you feel any pain or discomfort, stop. You may prefer qi gong-i find it smoother and softer than taichi and i am very arthritic with  a scoliosis.