Effect of Yijinjing exercise on cervical spondylosis: A protocol for systematic review

BACKGROUND: Cervical spondylosis (CS) is a common disease due to the modern lifestyle. Yijinjin, a kind of traditional Chinese exercise, is frequently used for the prevention of CS by Traditional Chinese Medicine doctors. However, there is no relevant systematic review show its effectiveness and safety. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Yijinjing for patients with CS. METHODS: The following electronic databases will be searched from the respective dates of database inception to June 1st, 2020: The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Springer, EMBASE, MEDLINE, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang database, the Chinese Scientific Journal Database, and other sources. All published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and blinded researches that are relevant to the subject of interest only will be contained. Two independent researchers will operate article retrieval, duplication removing, screening, quality evaluation, and data analyses by Review Manager (V.5.3.5). Meta-analyses, subgroup analysis and/or descriptive analysis will be performed based on the included data conditions. RESULTS: High-quality synthesis and/or descriptive analysis of current evidence will be provided from the neck disability index, neck pain questionnaire questionnaires, patient satisfaction scale and adverse reactions. CONCLUSION: This study will provide the evidence of whether Yijinjing is an effective and safe intervention for people with CS. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020164706.