Effects of physical therapy on lung function in children with asthma: Study protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Morbidity of asthma in children is increasing, which is significantly affecting children's life quality. Despite the medication therapy, physical therapies, including breathing exercises, inspiratory muscle training and physical training, are widely used to improve children's condition. However, the effectiveness of physical therapy remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis is aiming to evaluate the effects of physical therapy on lung function in children with asthma and to assess which physical therapy is more effective. METHODS: Three main databases (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library) will be searched from inception to November 30, 2018 for randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of physical therapy on lung function in children (age < 18 years old) with asthma published in English. In addition, a manual search of the references of relevant published studies in English will also be considered. Two independent reviewers will conduct studies selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. Outcome measures will be the Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF), the Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second (FEV1), and the Forced Vital Capacity (FVC). Subgroup analyses will be performed according to the physical therapy (breathing exercises, inspiratory muscle training, and physical training) and the outcome (PEF, FEV1, FVC). RESULTS: The results will provide useful information about the effect of physical therapy on lung function in children with asthma and demonstrate which physical therapy is more effective. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42019121627