Based on the research, it typically takes at least 6-12 weeks of regular Tai Chi practice to see improvements in back pain:
A study in 1998 found that 51 patients aged 18-60 with chronic low back pain reported improvements in depressive symptoms compared to a control group after just 6 weeks of practicing Tai Chi once a week for 90 minutes.
However, the review also notes that most of the studies were relatively brief, with the shortest lasting only 6 weeks, which is not long enough to ascertain the long-term effects.
Another study found that after the initial 12-week Tai Chi intervention, many of the positive effects on exercise capacity
Chair stand, and depressive symptoms were not maintained in the follow-up period from 12-24 weeks, suggesting that continued practice is needed to maintain the benefits
The review concludes that more clinical trials and empirical evidence are needed before doctors can reliably prescribe Tai Chi for low back pain, as some studies did report mild joint and back pain as adverse events.
While some studies show benefits in as little as 6 weeks, most research indicates it takes at least 12 weeks of regular Tai Chi practice to see improvements in back pain