The effect of nonpharmacologic interventions for muscle cramps and restless-leg syndrome in hemodialysis patients: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Abstract

We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of the nonpharmacologic interventions on muscle related symptoms including cramping and restless leg syndrome in hemodialysis patients. Articles published between 2002 and 2022 were searched in six databases. The standardized mean differences were determined by the upper and lower limits of 95% confidence intervals. Publication bias was assessed by conducting the Egger test and examined visually using a funnel plot. Fourteen studies were included in this meta-analysis. The types of interventions included exercise (n=5), aromatherapy (n=5), reflexology (n=3), massage (n=1), and acupressure (n=1). The methodological quality assessment revealed 13 studies were strong quality, while only one study was moderate quality. The Egger test indicated no significant publication biases. Healthcare professionals can use non-pharmacological methods to manage muscle-related symptoms because of not only beneficial effects but also it is practical, well-tolerated, easy integrated into the treatment and care.