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Systematic Evaluation and Meta-analysis of the Effects of Different Modes of Exercise Intervention on the Clinical Outcome of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

evidence-based-medicine
gastroenterology-and-hepatology
immunology
rehabilitation
sports-medicine

Abstract

Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort accompanied by changes in bowel habits. Given the complexity and diversity of IBS etiology and pathogenesis, conventional drug therapies often yield unsatisfactory outcomes. Therefore, exploring effective non-pharmacological interventions is crucial. In light of this, we plan to conduct a study that will be the first systematic randomized controlled trial and meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate the effects of different exercise interventions on IBS patients, aiming to provide a reliable evidence-based foundation for this field.

Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) meeting inclusion criteria published up to 16 June 2025. Screening and data extraction were performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4.1 software, supplemented by subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias assessment.

Results: A total of 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included, encompassing 942 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Primary outcomes comprised the IBS-SSS total score, IBS-OQL total score, and anxiety and depression scores. The meta-analysis demonstrated that exercise interventions exerted a positive effect in improving the severity of IBS symptoms and relieving anxiety and depression states (P < 0.05). Significant improvement trends were also observed across multiple dimensions of the IBS-OQL (such as interference with activity, body image, and health worries) (P < 0.05). Subgroup analyses suggested that different exercise modalities (e.g., Pilates, Baduanjin, yoga) and intervention duration (with optimal effects observed within 4 weeks) may be important sources of therapeutic variability.

Conclusion: Exercise intervention, as a non-pharmacological treatment approach, holds significant clinical value in the comprehensive management of IBS patients. Future research should focus on conducting high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving large sample sizes, multiple centers, and long-term follow-up to clarify its long-term efficacy and underlying mechanisms.

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