Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Dynamic Scalp Acupuncture (DSA) in stroke rehabilitation through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Approach:

• Study Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis will be conducted following PRISMA-P guidelines.
• Literature Search: A comprehensive search will be performed in multiple international and Chinese databases.
• Eligibility Criteria: Only RCTs evaluating DSA in adults with stroke will be included.
• Outcome Measures: Primary outcome: motor function; Secondary outcomes: activities of daily living and adverse events; Exploratory outcomes: neurological impairment, balance, spasticity, health-related quality of life, and depression.
• Data Assessment: Two reviewers will independently conduct study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool.
• Meta-Analysis: Meta-analyses will be performed using a random-effects model where appropriate.

Key Findings:

• Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, necessitating effective rehabilitation strategies.
• Dynamic Scalp Acupuncture (DSA) combines scalp acupuncture with task-oriented training.
• Preliminary trials suggest potential improvements in motor and cognitive outcomes with DSA.

Interpretation:

The systematic review aims to synthesize evidence on the efficacy and safety of DSA for stroke rehabilitation, addressing variability in existing literature.

Limitations:

• Variability in intervention protocols and methodological quality in existing studies.
• Previous reviews have often pooled diverse scalp acupuncture modalities without focusing on DSA.

Conclusion:

This systematic review is expected to provide up-to-date evidence on DSA for stroke rehabilitation.

Sources:

• Systematic Review Registration