Effects of sensorimotor training on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy-related outcomes in adults with cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of sensorimotor training (SMT)-based interventions on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and related outcomes in adults with cancer.

METHODS: Eleven bibliographic databases and two trial registries were searched from inception to 30 March 2026. Risk of bias was assessed for each outcome using RoB 2, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Meta-analyses used a random-effects model to pool post-intervention data as standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS: Eleven randomized controlled trials were included, with 548 participants randomized to eligible comparison groups; seven contributed quantitative data. Compared with control conditions, SMT-based interventions were associated with better CIPN patient-reported outcomes (SMD = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.18-0.89), clinician-reported outcomes (SMD = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.08-0.92), quality of life (SMD = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.34-0.94), balance function (SMD = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.43-1.15), and lower-limb muscle strength (SMD = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.30-1.04). Interaction tests did not identify statistically significant subgroup differences between SMT alone and combined programs; however, the small number of studies precluded conclusions about comparative or incremental benefit. The certainty of evidence was low for all assessed outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: SMT-based interventions may improve CIPN symptoms and related outcomes, but the evidence is limited by small study numbers, risk of bias, heterogeneous populations and protocols, and low certainty. Current evidence is insufficient to determine whether effects differ according to baseline CIPN status or whether adding aerobic and resistance training provides incremental benefit.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42024615574).