Effectiveness Of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Exercises Of Pelvis Versus Lateral Weight Shifting Exercises On Trunk Motor Control And Balance Among Post-Stroke Patients

Abstract

Background:  Stroke, a common neurological disorder resulting in a major cause of disability. Trunk control is a major prerequisite for stable balance and gait functions post stroke and it requires appropriate sensorimotor ability.

Objective: The objective is to find out the effectiveness of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation exercises versus Lateral Weight Shifting exercises in post stroke patients on improving trunk control and balance. A total of 42 subjects, Group A - 21 subjects received Pelvic PNF exercises and Group B - 21 subjects received lateral weight shifting exercises 30 minutes / session / day for 5 days / week for 4weeks and in addition received conventional therapy for 60 minutes respectively.

Outcome Measures: Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) and Tinetti Performance – Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA).

Results: The calculated ‘t’ value for Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) in groups A and B, using the paired ‘t’ test were 13.47 and 14.04; (P<0.05), and post-test score comparison between the groups using independent ‘t’ test, were 3.46 (P<0.05). The calculated ‘t’ value for Tinetti Performance – Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) in group A and B, using the paired ‘t’ test were 18.24 and 15.91; (P<0.05), and post-test score comparison between the groups using independent ‘t’ test, were 2.35 (P<0.05).

Conclusion: The results reveals that pelvic proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation exercises were more effective than the lateral weight shifting exercises in improving the trunk motor control, balance, and gait functions in stroke patients.