EFFECTS OF CORE STRENGTHENING VERSUS LOWER LIMB PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION TECHNIQUES ON TRUNK FUNCTION AND BALANCE IN CHRONIC STROKE PATIENTS

Abstract

Stroke, a significant contributor to disability, primarily affects the trunk's ability to produce movement and function. Patients with stroke experience falls frequently and have more post-fall activity limitations because of severe postural instability. The incidence of stroke steadily increases, further endangering the body's physical, mechanical and musculoskeletal functions.

Objective: To compare the effects of core strengthening versus lower limb Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Techniques on trunk function and balance in chronic stroke patients.

Materials and Methods: The randomised control trial (RCT) was conducted at Itiefaq Hospital & Riphah Rehabilitation Centre, Lahore, Pakistan, from June to December 2022. The subject includes either gender aged 40-70 with chronic stroke patients. They were randomised into two groups. Group A was treated with Core Strengthening exercises and conventional treatment, and Group B was treated with PNF and traditional therapy. The Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) were used to assess outcome measures. Data was analysed by using SPSS-21.

Rsults:  Out of 42 patients, there were 21 patients in the two groups. Scores for the Berg Balance and Trunk Impairment Scale showed significant results within a group as indicated by p-value (<0.05). The within-group analysis revealed essential findings in all parameters. The between-group comparison showed insignificant results in the case of the Trunk Impairment scale, as the p-value was not less than 0.05. Between-group results were significant in the case of the Berg Balance Scale (p<0.05).

Conclusion: This study concluded that applying core strengthening exercises and lower limb proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques improved the balance and function of the trunk in chronic stroke patients.