The effect of stabilization-based exercises on kinesiophobia in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of stabilization-based exercises in reducing kinesiophobia in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP).

The literature was searched from inception to August 2024 in PubMed, Web of Science and, Cochrane Library electronic databases. Only randomized controlled trials were included. Quality assessment, risk of bias assessment and meta-analysis were performed. Outcomes were also analysed according to follow up periods as short-term (< 3 months), mid-term (≥ 3 to 12 months) and long-term (> 12 months).

This systematic review and meta-analysis included 13 randomized controlled trials including 346 patients with NSCLBP. High evidence showed that stabilization based exercise reduce kinesiophobia in the short term with small effect size. Moderate evidence suggested that stabilization based exercises effects on kinesiophobia in the mid term with with medium effect size. Stabilization based exercise is also effective on kinesiophobia in long term, but level of evidence is very low.

In conclusion, stabilization-based exercises are effective on kinesiophobia in the short and mid term in individuals with NSCLBP. However, long-term data is uncertain.