Effects of Somatosensory Interventions on Sensory, Motor, and Balance Functions in Individuals with Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BackgroundSomatosensory interventions are increasingly used in stroke rehabilitation, but their effectiveness remains uncertain because of heterogeneity in intervention protocols and study quality.ObjectiveTo evaluate the immediate and long-term effects of somatosensory interventions in improving sensory, motor, and balance functions compared to conventional therapy in individuals with stroke.MethodsThis systematic review was reported in accordance with PRISMA-2020. Seven electronic databases were searched. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane RoB-2 tool. Meta-analysis using a random-effects model was performed where at least two studies reported comparable outcomes; remaining outcomes were narratively synthesized following SWiM guidance.ResultsNine randomized controlled trials, comprising 330 participants, fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Meta-analysis demonstrated a significant improvement in Berg Balance Scale scores following somatosensory interventions compared with conventional therapy, whereas no significant pooled effects were observed for the Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity or the Action Research Arm Test. Narrative synthesis suggested that proprioceptive training improved upper limb sensory function and lower limb sensory, motor, and balance function. Combined proprioceptive and exteroceptive stimulation or thermotherapy was associated with improvements in upper limb motor function and balance, while focal vibration demonstrated beneficial effects on upper limb motor function. Risk of bias ranged from some concerns to high. Only two studies assessed the long-term effects of somatosensory intervention, with insufficient data to determine the effects.ConclusionCurrent evidence suggests that somatosensory interventions may improve sensory, motor, and balance outcomes after stroke. However, substantial heterogeneity and limited long-term follow-up preclude definitive conclusions, highlighting the need for robust trials with standardized intervention protocols and long-term follow-up.