[Evidence-based grounds of physical therapy. Focus on training/exercise therapy of musculoskeletal problems].
Evidence of the benefit of exercise for patients with musculoskeletal problems was examined by analysing meta-analyses and systematic reviews. The literature search was confined to studies where pain and/or function was used as the outcome measure. Twenty-three meta-analyses/systematic reviews were covered, and the methodical quality was assessed. Nine out of twelve meta-analyses showed that exercise had a positive effect on groups groups diagnosed with intermittent claudication, fibromyalgia, incontinence, low back pain, and stroke, whereas one meta-analysis (exercise to prevent falls in the elderly) showed no effect. Of the systematic reviews, six out of 12 showed a positive effect and five were inconclusive, owing to the lack of clinical trials. We conclude that much more research in the field of exercise and physiotherapy is needed.
Lund
H
H
Parker Instituttet, reumatologisk klinik, medicinsk center, H:S Frederiksberg Hospital, DK-2000 Frederiksberg. hans.lund@fh.hosp.dk
Petersen
L A
LA
Bartels
E M
EM
D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D006801:Humans; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000628:therapy*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic