The Efficacy of Boxing Training on Patients with Parkinson's Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to systematically review the available evidence on the effects of boxing interventions on people with Parkinson disease. Methods: Four electronic databases were searched systematically from their inception until December 2023. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database and Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies scales. Results: A total of 13 studies were included. Data synthesis indicated that participants who performed boxing programs did not have a significant effect in the polled data on functional mobility, balance, motor symptoms, gait and cardiorespiratory fitness Accordingly, for the effects of boxing on self-reported quality of life, the polled data showed a non-significant trend towards improving Hedges' g. Also, when the analysis was performed by comparing the experimental and control groups, the results remained non-significant. Conclusions: The evidence regarding the use of boxing as a program exercise for patients with Parkinson disease remains uncertain. Preliminary findings indicate that participation in boxing does not demonstrate a substantial impact on either physical or mental health outcomes.