Using Tai Chi and relaxation techniques to help adolescents with unexplained physical symptoms

Non-Medication Methods to Relieve Adolescents with Somatoform Disorders

Observational Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris · NCT06865833

This study tests if Tai Chi and relaxation techniques can help teenagers with unexplained physical symptoms feel better and improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages12 Years to 19 Years
SexAll
SponsorAssistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris Academic / other
Locations1 site (Créteil, Créteil)
Trial IDNCT06865833 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research investigates the effects of Tai Chi and relaxation techniques on adolescents aged 12-19 suffering from chronic somatoform disorders, which manifest as unexplained physical symptoms like abdominal pain and headaches. The study aims to evaluate how these non-medication methods can alleviate symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for affected adolescents. By focusing on mind-body practices, the research seeks to address both the physical and psychological aspects of these disorders, which often lead to significant disruptions in daily life. Participants will engage in Tai Chi sessions designed to reduce pain, manage stress, and enhance mood.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents aged 12-19 who experience somatic or somatoform complaints and are physically able to practice Tai Chi.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to participate in group activities or have significant comprehension difficulties may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a non-invasive method to alleviate chronic pain and improve the quality of life for adolescents with somatoform disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of Tai Chi for chronic pain management has shown promise in other studies, this specific application for adolescents with somatoform disorders is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
nclusion Criteria:

* Adolescents aged between 12 and 19 years
* Somatic or somatoform complaints
* Understanding of instructions as assessed by the investigator
* Physically able to practice Tai Chi
* Patients/parents informed and not opposed to the research

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to participate in a group as assessed by the investigator Refusal to participate Any difficulty in understanding or reading French that may prevent the execution of the protocol, as assessed by the investigator Patient deprived of liberty or under judicial protection (guardianship, curatorship, legal safeguard)

Where this trial is running

Créteil, Créteil

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Chronic Somatoform Disorders in AdolescentsChronic somatoform disordersSomatic symptomsAdolescent medicineTai Chi for chronic painPsychosomatic disordersMental health in adolescents
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.