Abstract: Objective To explore the effects of Baduanjin on cognitive function, anxiety and depression in patients in recovery stage after traumatic brain injury. Methods From January to July, 2018, 64 patients in recovery stage after traumatic brain injury were included. Finally, there were 31 patients in control group and 29 in experimental group. The experimental group received Baduanjin exercise, while the control group did not receive any regular exercise. They were assessed with Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) and Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) before intervention, and six weeks, twelve weeks and 24 weeks after intervention. Results The scores of HAMA and HAMD decreased in the experimental group after intervention (P < 0.05), but there was no significance in the control group (P > 0.05). The scores of orientation, visual and spatial perception, and visuomotor organization increased in the experimental group twelve weeks after intervention (P < 0.05), but there was no significance in the control group (P > 0.05). The scores of all the areas of LOTCA and total scores increased in the experimental group 24 weeks after intervention (P < 0.05), but there was no significance in the control group (P > 0.05). LOTCA total scores negtively correlated with HAMA and HAMD scores (P < 0.05). Conclusion Regular Baduanjin exercise can improve the cognition and mood of patients after traumatic brain injury.

Key words: traumatic brain injury, Baduanjin, cognition, anxiety, depression