Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is characterized by the co-existence of excess adiposity and low muscle performance, with a high prevalence and poor prognosis in the geriatric population.

This systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) aims to assess the most effective non-pharmacological interventions for SO patients, including nutrition, exercise, and physical agent therapy.

A systematic search of six electronic databases was conducted from their inception until July 5, 2025, for randomized controlled trials. The NMA utilized a random-effects model, pooled mean difference (MD) and standardized mean difference (SMD), with 95% credible intervals (CrI), accounting for correlations within multi-arm trials. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were also performed.