Complementary and alternative therapies for poststroke depression: A protocol for systematic review and network...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Integrative Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Poststroke depression (PSD) is a significant complication of stroke, increasing disability and mortality.
• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies are frequently used for PSD, but selection strategies are unclear.
• Effective management of PSD is crucial for stroke survivor recovery and public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and acceptability of various CAM therapies for treating PSD.
• To provide evidence-based guidance for selecting CAM interventions in clinical practice.
• To inform healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers on CAM for PSD.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and network meta-analysis will be conducted.
• Seven electronic databases will be searched up to August 2020.
• Methodological quality and evidence grading will follow established guidelines (Cochrane, GRADE).

Main Results:

• The study will provide reliable evidence for selecting CAM therapies for PSD.
• Findings will aid in understanding the comparative effectiveness of different CAM approaches.
• The results will highlight the most suitable CAM options for PSD management.

Conclusions:

• This research offers valuable references for evaluating CAM therapies for PSD.
• The findings will support clinical decision-making for PSD treatment.
• Evidence will guide practitioners, patients, and policymakers in utilizing CAM for poststroke depression.