Effects of rehabilitation methods on lower-limb muscle function and functional performance in patients with cystic fibrosis: A systematic review.

To investigate the effects of rehabilitation methods on leg muscle function and functional performance in cystic fibrosis. A literature search was conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus and the Cochrane Library from inception to October 12, 2020. A secondary hand search through reference lists from identified articles was conducted. Three authors independently checked the full-text copies for eligibility of relevant articles. Randomized controlled trials were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. Results suggestive of leg muscle function (e.g. strength, power, endurance, and fatigue) and functional performance were reported. The search identified 8 studies (233 patients). The overall quality of these articles was good. Rehabilitation modalities investigated were physical exercises (aerobic, anaerobic and resistance training) ( Combined aerobic and resistance training enhances leg muscle strength in cystic fibrosis. There is insufficient data on other leg muscle outcomes, nor on alternative rehabilitation strategies.