The comparison of PNF techniques to core exercises in improving muscle strength and balance in patients 6 months following stroke

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke is a significantly disabling condition, especially if left untreated. With the increasing prevalence of stroke patients in Malta and globally, physiotherapists strive to find the most effective way towards a functional recovery of these patients. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the PNF technique in improving muscle strength and balance when compared to core strengthening exercises in chronic stroke patients. Method: Databases used for this research include Google Scholar, Pubmed, Hybrid Dictionary (HyDi) and Cochrane, dated after January 2011. Keywords used include Stroke, CVA, PNF, Core Strengthening, Core Stability, Muscle Strength, Muscle Power, Balance, Posture and Stability. The Boolean terms used include “OR” and “AND”. Randomised control trials and systematic reviews were included for analysis of this dissertation, in accordance to the Hierarchy of Evidence. After screening 36,873 articles derived from the primary searches performed, 6 studies met all inclusion criteria set. The chosen articles were critically appraised by using the CASP tool, and the results were discussed accordingly. Results: The findings suggest that for chronic stroke patients there is strong evidence supporting the use of PNF techniques and core strengthening exercises when targeting muscle strength and balance. However, further research is required to determine any possible superiority between the two interventions. Conclusion: PNFs were generally significant, and core strengthening was found to be most significant on unstable surfaces. Nevertheless, the positive trends noted from the selected studies may be easily applied into clinical practice, and this may be done by combining the PNF technique and the use of unstable surfaces for optimal results.