Effects of mind-body exercise on PTSD symptoms, depression and anxiety in PTSD patients: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis

Zhu, Lin; Li, Long; Li, Xiao-zhi; Wang, Lin

BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to systematically analyze the effects of mind-body exercise on PTSD symptom, depression and anxiety among patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and to provide a scientific evidence-based exercise prescription. Meanwhile, it will also help reduce the global mental health burden of COVID-19. METHODS: Both Chinese and English databases (PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, VIP Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang) were used as sources of data to search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between January 1980 to September 2020 relating to the effects of mind-body exercise on PTSD symptom, depression and anxiety in PTSD patients. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis will provide stronger evidence on the effectiveness and safety of mind-body exercise for PTSD symptoms in PTSD patients. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: INPLASY2020120072.