Role of Core-Based Exercises in Improving Proprioception among Individuals with Neurological Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE: This study aimed to validate the effect of core-based exercise on proprioception in individuals with neurological disorders through a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed,Web of Science, and Scopus for studies published up to October 10, 2023.The search yielded 1,945 articles, with seven studies ultimately included for in-depth analysis. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated using Hedges’ g value using both random-effects and fixed-effects models. RESULTS: The meta-analysis revealed that core-based exercise significantly improved joint position sense (SMD=-1.33; 95% confidence interval [CI] =-2.09 to-0.57; I²=0%; p<.001) and kinesthesia (SMD=-0.33; 95% CI=-0.62 to-0.05; I²=0%; p<.05) in individuals with neurological disorders. In a sub-analysis by the type of neurological disease, core-based exercises were beneficial only for stroke patients (SMD=-1.05; 95% CI=-2.07 to-0.03; I²=58%; p<.05), but not for those with Parkinson’s disease or chorea.An analysis by the type of core exercise showed that core stability exercises had a significant benefit (SMD=-0.55; 95% CI=-0.97 to-0.14; I²=0%; p<.001), whereas yoga exercises did not demonstrate a significant effect. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, core-based exercises positively improved proprioception in patients with neurological disorders, and were particularly effective in stroke patients.Among various types of core exercises, only core stability exercises had a positive effect on proprioception in patients with neurological disorders.