Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation and Treadmill Training on the Balance and Walking Ability of Stroke Patients

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of combined training using proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) patterns and treadmills on the balance and walking ability of stroke patients. METHODS: Twenty-three stroke patients were randomized into a control group (n=11), receiving only treadmill training and an experimental group (n=12) receiving combined training. The use of both PNF exercise and treadmill were implemented in the combined training. Interventions were performed 5 times a week for 6 weeks. Balance ability was measured by a timed up and go (TUG) test. Walking ability was measured by a 10-meter walk test (10MWT) and a 6-minute walk test (6MWT). A paired t-test was used to compare differences between pre- and post-intervention and independent t-tests were used to compare between groups. RESULTS: Changes in TUG, 10MWT, and 6MWT before and after interventions were significantly different for both the experimental group and the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, within-group changes in the TUG, 10MWT, and 6MWT were more effective in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Combined training using PNF techniques and treadmills may be useful in improving the balance and walking ability of stroke patients.