Unveiling the healing potential of energy therapies in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis with implications for nursing practice.

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the effects of energy therapies on pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1], forced vital capacity [FVC], and FEV1/FVC), exercise capacity (6-Minute Walking Test [6MWT]), and quality of life (St George's Respiratory Questionnaire [SGRQ]) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Conducted per PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO, this meta-analysis included 8 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified through systematic searches of Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, EBSCO, Embase, and Cochrane Library (June 2024-January 2025). Data were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 3 software, with heterogeneity and publication bias assessments. Energy therapies significantly improved 6MWT scores (95% CI, P < .05) and SGRQ scores, enhancing quality of life. Patients receiving energy therapy showed increased walking distance, particularly when combined with pulmonary rehabilitation. SGRQ results indicated better quality of life, mainly due to reduced stress and anxiety. However, no significant improvement was found in FEV1, FVC, or FEV1/FVC values (P > 0.05), suggesting limited direct effects on pulmonary function. Methodological variations and sample size differences contributed to result inconsistencies. Energy therapies may complement COPD treatment by improving exercise capacity and quality of life. However, large-scale, long-term RCTs are needed to clarify their impact on pulmonary function.