Effect of Vojta technique on improvement in respiratory function and neuromuscular impairment in infants with preterm: a systematic review protocol.

Abstract

This systematic review protocol introduces the rationale to investigate how well the Vojta approach works to improve respiratory function and lessen neuromuscular deficits in premature newborns. Innovative approaches like the Vojta technique may offer a possible therapeutic path for preterm newborns, who frequently suffer significant obstacles in their early development. We outline a rigorous methodology for this systematic review. A comprehensive search strategy will be implemented across various databases to identify relevant studies. This systematic review will encompass randomized controlled trials through electronic and manual searches. Electronic searches will be carried out in databases such as PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search will span articles published from 2000 to 2025; predefined eligibility criteria involve participants who were premature babies (those born before 37 weeks gestation). Exposure includes participants diagnosed with any other diagnosis that does not include NRDS. Outcome measures focus on oxygen saturation levels (SpO₂), arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis (e.g., PaO₂, PaCO₂, and pH), respiratory rate (breaths per minute), and lung compliance (static or dynamic) will all be used to quantify respiratory function. Two independent reviewers will conduct study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. The primary outcomes encompassing SpO₂, ABG, Ballard, and APGAR will be systematically analysed.Dissemination and ethics As no primary data will be collected, ethical approval is not required. The findings will be presented at relevant conferences and published in a peer-reviewed journal.Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD420250643755.