EFFECTS OF MUSCLE STRENGTHENING AND CARDIOVASCULAR FITNESS ACTIVITIES FOR POLIOMYELITIS SURVIVORS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Objective: To evaluate and assess the effectiveness of muscle strengthening and cardiovascular inter-ventions in improving outcomes in poliomyelitis (polio) survivors. Data sources: A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for experimental and observational studies. Study selection and extraction: Screening, data-extraction, risk of bias and quality assessment were carried out independently by the authors. The quality appraisal and risk of bias were assessed using the Downs and Black Checklist. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was followed to increase clarity of reporting. Data synthesis: A total of 21 studies that met all the in-clusion criteria were subjected to statistical analyses according to intervention (muscle strengthening or cardiovascular fitness). A random-effects meta -analysis showed a statistically significant effect for the exercise interventions favouring improvement in outcomes according to the International Classifica-tion of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Conclusion: This review provides further insight into the effects associated with muscle strengthening and cardiovascular interventions among polio sur-vivors, and helps to further identify the current state of research in this area. Future research is needed, focusing on individualized approaches to exercise with polio survivors and specific exercise prescrip-tion recommendations, based on established frame-works, such as the ICF.