Multidimensional Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Exercises for Cardiovascular Disease: A Protocol for Systemic Review.

Abstract Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the No. 1 leading cause of death worldwide and its mortality is still on the rise. Cumulative studies suggest that Traditional Chinese Exercises (TCEs), such as Tai Chi, Baduanjin, and Qi Gong, benefit cardiopulmonary function. In this study, we proposed a meta-analysis protocol to systemically review the benefits of TCEs for CVD using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as the outcome measures. Methods: Randomized controlled studies on TCEs as a rehabilitation strategy for CVD patients and published till Dec. 2019 will be searched from eleven databases. Benefits of TCEs will be further grouped according to the ICF checklist, the subgroups of TCEs are to address heterogeneity. Study selection and data extraction will be performed independently by two reviewers. Data analysis will be performed using Review Manager software, and the risk of bias will be assessed using Cochrane criteria. Results: Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated electronically and in print. Conclusion: Using ICF as the reference, this study will provide novel insights on the value of TCEs as a rehabilitation approach for CVD patients. The results will help clinicians to design rehabilitation programs and select appropriate TCEs optimal for CVD patients. The protocol is applying for registration on PROSPERO. Figure A will prove.