Search Results (13)

Objectives: The primary aim of this study was to compare the acute effects of two stretching techniques—static stretching (SST) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF)—on functional outcomes related to postural balance (stabilographic parameters) and ankle range of motion (ROM; active and passive measures). Furthermore, the study aimed to assess the association between changes in balance- and ROM-related parameters. Methods: The study sample consisted of 24 young adults in the age range of 21–24. The SS group (n = 12) mean body height was 174.3 ± 7.8 [cm], body weight 68.0 ± 13.1 [kg], and BMI 22.2 ± 2.8 [kg/m²]. The PNF group’s (n = 12) mean body height was 173.7 ± 7.3 [cm], body weight 68.6 ± 13.5 [kg], and BMI 22.5 ± 3.0 [kg/m²]. The subjects performed static stretching or proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching involving the tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius, and soleus muscles. Before and immediately after the intervention, the active and passive range of plantar and dorsal flexion of the foot and the stability of the body posture in the anterior–posterior plane were measured based on the analysis of the center of pressure (COP) sway. Results: The results of the mixed model ANOVA (intervention × time) showed no statistically significant effect of the intervention or interaction between intervention and time for ROM and COP measurements. In both cases, a statistically significant time effect was found. After intervention, significant differences were found in COP variability (p = 0.02), COP range (p = 0.03), fractal dimension (p = 0.04), and sample entropy (p = 0.01). Similarly, for range of motion, differences were observed in passive dorsiflexion (p < 0.01), active plantarflexion (p < 0.01), and passive plantarflexion (p = 0.01). Pearson’s correlation analysis did not reveal significant associations between changes in ankle range of motion and COP variables. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that both static and PNF stretching acutely increase the range of motion in the ankle joint; however, they also lead to a decrease in postural stability under more challenging conditions involving visual or vestibular deprivation. The magnitude of the range of motion changes was not associated with alterations in stabilographic parameters. Full article

Flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon injuries, although rare, severely affect foot stability and mobility, particularly in individuals engaging in repetitive push-off actions. This case study examines a 27-year-old male who underwent surgical repair for FHL tendon rupture, followed by a structured, multi-modal rehabilitation program integrating advanced therapeutic techniques. The 12-week program was divided into three distinct phases to ensure a structured and progressive recovery process. The Early Phase (Weeks 1–4) focused on pain and edema control through interventions such as massage, electrotherapy, kinesiotaping, and the use of peritendinous ultrasonography to monitor recovery progress. The Intermediate Phase (Weeks 5–8) aimed to enhance strength and flexibility by incorporating Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), weight-bearing exercises, dynamic stretching, and the progressive integration of Graston massage techniques. Finally, the Advanced Phase (Weeks 9–12) prioritized functional recovery, utilizing balance training, load transfer exercises, agility drills, and Theragun applications to prepare the individual for a return to optimal physical performance. Significant improvements were observed, including pain reduction (VAS score reduced by X%), increased dorsiflexion flexibility (from X° to X°), and enhanced muscle strength (e.g., tibialis anterior strength increased by X%). Functional assessments, such as the Y Balance Test, revealed improved endurance and mobility. This case study highlights the benefits of integrating innovative techniques like Graston massage and Theragun within a structured, evidence-based rehabilitation program to optimize recovery post-FHL tendon surgery. Full article

Aim: To assess the acute effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), stretching was applied to the hamstring muscles to evaluate deep cervical flexor endurance. Potential variables correlating with endurance adaptations were examined. Methods: This randomized controlled trial performed between September 2023 and June 2024 included healthy female university students aged 18–25 years. Participants were randomly assigned to either the control or the PNF group. Variables included age, height, weight, body mass index, Beighton score, hamstring flexibility, and deep cervical flexor muscle endurance; correlations between changes in hamstring flexibility and DCF endurance were explored. Hamstring flexibility was assessed using the Passive Knee Extension Test, and deep cervical flexor endurance was assessed using the Cranio-Cervical Flexion Test. The PNF group received hold–relax exercises while controls did not receive any intervention. Results: The study included 32 control participants and 32 individuals in the PNF group. The PNF group was marginally but significantly older than the control group [22 (21–23) vs. 21 (21–22); p = 0.038]. At baseline, the PNF group showed greater hamstring flexibility (p = 0.010). Both groups showed significant improvements in hamstring flexibility (p < 0.001 for both), but the improvement in the PNF recipients was far greater (p < 0.001). Regarding deep neck flexor endurance, no significant difference was observed between the groups at baseline (p = 0.958) or in final measurements (p = 0.244), although both groups showed significant improvements from baseline (p < 0.001 for both). There were no significant correlations between the change in deep neck flexor endurance and any of the examined variables. Conclusions: Our study found that a single session of PNF stretching significantly improved hamstring flexibility but did not immediately enhance deep neck flexor endurance. This emphasizes the need for further research into longer-term interventions to assess whether interventions on hamstring flexibility can improve cervical function. Full article

Background: Adequate hamstring flexibility is crucial for musculoskeletal health as increased muscle tone can lead to stretch-type injuries, muscle weakness, dysfunctional neuromuscular control, postural changes, and lower back pain. The aim was to compare the effectiveness of a program based on Electrical Muscle Elongation (EME), Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), and no intervention in improving flexibility and viscoelastic properties of hamstring and quadriceps muscles in active young adults with functional hamstring disorder (type 2B according to the Munich Consensus). Methods: Sixty-five participants (45 male, 20 female) were randomly assigned to three groups: the EME group (n = 21) received a simultaneous combination of interferential current and stretching, the PNF group (n = 22) underwent active stretching, and the Control group (n = 22) received no intervention. Hamstring and quadricep flexibility and muscle stiffness were measured in both limbs at baseline, post-intervention, and at the 4-week follow-up. Results: The EME group showed significant improvements in hamstring flexibility in the left limb compared to the Control group and in some myotonometric variables of the quadriceps muscle compared to the PNF and Control groups (p < 0.05). Within-groups differences indicated higher improvements in the EME group. Conclusions: This study suggests that EME may offer greater benefits than PNF stretching in young adults with functional hamstring disorder. Full article

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders associated with excessive smartphone use represent a significant health issue. Text neck syndrome is one such disorder within that group, increasingly affecting individuals worldwide across various age groups. The phenomenon of text neck may occur in individuals who frequently and for prolonged periods adopt a forward-flexed neck and head position while looking at the screens of mobile electronic devices. Various therapeutic methods are used in the treatment of text neck syndrome. However, there is no consensus on text neck rehabilitation, which poses a challenge for physiotherapists. Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the phenomenon of text neck, with a particular emphasis on current scientific reports regarding the rehabilitation of text neck syndrome. The scoping review was conducted to determine the physiotherapy methods currently used in the treatment of individuals with text neck, assess their impact on symptom reduction, and identify existing knowledge gaps and limitations in the current literature on the rehabilitation of text neck syndrome. Design: A scoping review was conducted on the treatment of text neck syndrome based on electronic databases: PubMed, ResearchGate, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), and the Cochrane Library. The databases were searched up to 1 December 2024. The inclusion criteria comprised studies investigating physiotherapy interventions for individuals with text neck, published between 2018 and 2024 and written in English. Results: A total of fifteen papers were reviewed, focusing on various methods used in text neck rehabilitation, including postural correction exercises, stabilization exercises, strengthening and stretching exercises, Pilates, PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation), kinesiology taping, Bowen therapy, and manual therapy. Nearly all studies were conducted in the adult population (93%), with the majority of studies taking place in India (60%). Conclusions: In summary, all studies suggest that appropriate physiotherapeutic interventions can provide significant benefits, including pain reduction, posture correction, and improved range of motion in the cervical spine. The best outcomes appear to be achieved by combining various therapeutic techniques. However, further high-quality research is needed to strengthen the evidence and offer reliable recommendations for clinical practice. Additionally, there is limited research on physiotherapy for text neck in the pediatric population, presenting a potential area for future studies. Full article

Background: Hamstring muscle injuries are common in basketball and result in long periods of inactivity. To reduce their incidence, preventive protocols, including proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretches, have been proposed. The aim of this study is to compare the short-term effects of PNF and PNF + neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on hamstring extensibility and, secondarily, on vertical jump capacity in young basketball players. Materials and Methods: The study was a randomized controlled trial. One group performed a PNF stretching protocol and the other PNF + NMES. Hamstring extensibility was measured using the Sit and Reach test and the popliteal angle and jump capacity were measured using the Counter Movement Jump, both before and immediately after the intervention. Results: Forty-five young male players participated. Both groups showed significant intra-group improvements (p < 0.001) in hamstring flexibility after the intervention. However, there were no significant intra-group differences (p > 0.05) in jump capacity. Additionally, no significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed between the two groups for any of the measured variables. Conclusions: Both programs are effective in increasing hamstring flexibility in the short term without impairing vertical jump capacity in young basketball players. Full article

The aim of this research was to investigate the effects of different stretching techniques used during warm-up exercises prior to post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) on the explosive lower extremity strength performance of soccer players. This cross-sectional study involved the participation of 13 male soccer players with an average age of 22.38 ± 1.75, body height of 174.38 ± 3.94, and body mass of 72.30 ± 4.13. To determine the participants’ maximal strength performance, one repeated maximal strength (1-RM) squat exercise was applied. The PAPE protocol was then implemented with a squat exercise consisting of three repetitions at 80% of 1-RM. The warm-up protocols consisted of 5 min of cycling, followed by dynamic stretching, static stretching, or proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching exercises. These protocols were applied on four different days with a 72 h interval. A vertical jump test was conducted to measure the participants’ explosive strength performance. The research data were analyzed using IBM Statistics (SPSS version 26.0, Armonk, NY, USA) software. The findings of this study revealed statistically significant differences in vertical jump performance values after PAPE among participants based on the different stretching techniques used during warm-up (p = 0.00). In this context, the research concluded that dynamic stretching is the optimal stretching technique during warm-up exercises before PAPE to maximize its effects. On the other hand, static stretching was found to negatively affect performance by absorbing the PAPE effect. Full article

This study delves into the multifaceted approaches to treating Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting motor function but also manifesting in a variety of symptoms that vary greatly among individuals. The complexity of PD symptoms necessitates a comprehensive treatment strategy that integrates surgical interventions, pharmacotherapy, and physical therapy to tailor to the unique needs of each patient. Surgical options, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), have been pivotal for patients not responding adequately to medication, offering significant symptom relief. Pharmacotherapy remains a cornerstone of PD management, utilizing drugs like levodopa, dopamine agonists, and others to manage symptoms and, in some cases, slow down disease progression. However, these treatments often lead to complications over time, such as motor fluctuations and dyskinesias, highlighting the need for precise dosage adjustments and sometimes combination therapies to optimize patient outcomes. Physical therapy plays a critical role in addressing the motor symptoms of PD, including bradykinesia, muscle rigidity, tremors, postural instability, and akinesia. PT techniques are tailored to improve mobility, balance, strength, and overall quality of life. Strategies such as gait and balance training, strengthening exercises, stretching, and functional training are employed to mitigate symptoms and enhance functional independence. Specialized approaches like proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), the Bobath concept, and the use of assistive devices are also integral to the rehabilitation process, aimed at improving patients’ ability to perform daily activities and reducing the risk of falls. Innovations in technology have introduced robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) and other assistive devices, offering new possibilities for patient care. These tools provide targeted support and feedback, allowing for more intensive and personalized rehabilitation sessions. Despite these advancements, high costs and accessibility issues remain challenges that need addressing. The inclusion of exercise and activity beyond structured PT sessions is encouraged, with evidence suggesting that regular physical activity can have neuroprotective effects, potentially slowing disease progression. Activities such as treadmill walking, cycling, and aquatic exercises not only improve physical symptoms but also contribute to emotional well-being and social interactions. In conclusion, treating PD requires a holistic approach that combines medical, surgical, and therapeutic strategies. While there is no cure, the goal is to maximize patients’ functional abilities and quality of life through personalized treatment plans. This integrated approach, along with ongoing research and development of new therapies, offers hope for improving the management of PD and the lives of those affected by this challenging disease. Full article

Participating in sports has been shown to promote overall wellness and, at the same time, reduce health risks. As more people are participating in sports, competitions have increased, and every aspect of the game has been focused by coaches and athletes in order to improve performance. One of these aspects is the warm-up session. The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effect of a dynamic warm-up versus a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) warm-up on the sprint and jump performance of recreationally active men. Thirty (n = 30) males were randomly assigned to undergo three sessions of different warm-up types, 72 h apart, involving either proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), dynamic stretching (DS), or no stretching session (control). The PNF and dynamic modes of stretching improved vertical jump performance, F (2.58) = 5.49, p = 0.046, to a certain extent (mean + 3.32% vs. control, p = 0.002 for dynamic and mean + 1.53% vs. control, p = 0.048 for PNF stretching). Dynamic stretching is best used to get a better vertical jump height. Sprint performance was also increased to a greater extent following the stretching session, F (2.58) = 5.60, p = 0.01. Sprint time was +1.05% faster vs. the control, with a value of p = 0.002 after dynamic stretching, while PNF stretching demonstrated a sprint time of +0.35% vs. the control, with a value of p = 0.049. Dynamic stretching showed a better sprint performance and also vertical jump height performance in this study. PNF and dynamic stretching prove to be equally efficacious in flexibility conditioning depending on the type of movement involved. This type of stretching should be utilized to help preserve or improve the performance output of physical activity, especially in sprinting and jumping events. Full article

Introduction and Objective: Previously, various stretching techniques were compared to study their effects on the different physiological parameters of hamstring muscles in the elderly population. There is no research that compares the immediate and long-term effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation-contract–relax (PNF-CR) and static stretching (SS) techniques on knee range of motion (ROM), hamstring flexibility, and knee flexor muscle EMG activity in the elderly. This study intends to compare the same. Methods: A total of 30 males aged 55–75 years were randomly assigned into the PNF-CR group (n = 10), SS group (n = 10), and control group (n = 10). The PNF-CR group received four trials of the contract–relax technique, the SS group received passive stretching of an 80 s duration by the therapist, and the control group received no intervention. A total of 12 sessions were given during the four-week period. Knee range of motion, electromyographic activity of the biceps femoris, and the sit-and-reach test were taken for the dominant side thrice: pre-intervention, immediately after stretching, and after the training period. Results: A statistically significant difference was observed in the maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of biceps femoris between the PNF and the control groups (p = 0.01) after four weeks of intervention. The knee ROM and hamstring flexibility for the PNF group showed significant improvement immediately post-test (p = 0.01) and after four weeks of training (p = 0.07 and p = 0.001). SS showed significant results for both ROM and flexibility after four weeks of intervention (p = 0.001), and significant immediate post-test improvements were seen for ROM only (p = 0.007). Conclusions: PNF stretching has an immediate, as well as long-term, effect on knee ROM and hamstring flexibility, whereas it has only a long-term effect on muscle electromyographic activity. SS has an immediate, as well as long-term, effect on knee ROM and only a long-term effect on hamstring flexibility, without any immediate or long-term effects on muscle electromyographic activity. Full article

Background: the use of stretching techniques in the sports world is frequent and common thanks to their many effects. One of the main benefits of stretching is an increased range of motion (ROM). Recently, the use of a foam roller has spread in sports practice due to benefits that are similar to those of shoes observed in stretching. The objective of the following study was to compare the results of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching (PNF) with foam rolling (FR). Methods: The design of the study was a single-blind, randomized controlled trial (clinicaltrial.gov NCT05134883), and the participants were 80 healthy young athletes. The range of motion was evaluated with a modified sit-and-reach test before, during (at 30 s), and at the end of the intervention (at 2 min). The subject’s discomfort sensation was measured using the Borg scale. Effect sizes were calculated using Cohen’s d coefficient. Volunteers were randomized into the PNF group or FR group. Results: the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001) during the intervention in favor of PNF group. The differences at the end of intervention showed that the PNF group had a greater increase in flexibility, with this difference being statically significant (p < 0.001). The sensation of perceived exertion with PNF at the end of the intervention was similarly classified as moderate for both groups. Conclusion: Despite the fact that the use of FR is spreading in the field of sports and rehabilitation, the results of the present study suggest that the gain in flexibility in the hamstrings is greater if PNF-type stretches are used instead of FR. Full article

Stretching is considered a clinically effective way to prevent muscle contracture development in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). Therefore, in this study, we assessed the effects of a single session of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) or static stretching (SS) on ankle joint range of motion (RoM) and gastrocnemius muscle-tendon behavior in children with CP. During the SS (n = 8), the ankle joint was held in maximum dorsiflexion (30 s). During the PNF stretching (n = 10), an isometric contraction (3–5 s) was performed, followed by stretching (~25 s). Ten stretches were applied in total. We collected data via dynamometry, 3D motion capture, 2D ultrasound, and electromyography, before and after the stretching sessions. A mixed ANOVA was used for the statistical analysis. Both ankle RoM and maximum dorsiflexion increased over time (F(1,16) = 7.261, p < 0.05, η² = 0.312; and F(1,16) = 4.900, p < 0.05, η² = 0.234, respectively), without any difference between groups. An interaction effect (F(1,12) = 4.768, p = 0.05, η² = 0.284) was observed for muscle-tendon unit elongation (PNF: −8.8%; SS: +14.6%). These findings suggest a positive acute effect of stretching on ankle function. However, SS acutely increased muscle-tendon unit elongation, while this decreased after PNF stretching, indicating different effects on the spastic muscles. Whether PNF stretching has the potential to cause positive alterations in individuals with CP should be elucidated in future studies. Full article

Background: The effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching on muscle imbalance are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to examine the acute effects of PNF stretching on knee extension and flexion peak torque (PT), as well as the conventional and functional hamstrings to quadriceps (H:Q) ratios. Methods: Fifteen men (age = 22 ± 1 years; body mass = 76 ± 12 kg; height = 176 ± 7 cm) and fifteen women (age = 22 ± 2 years; body mass = 63 ± 8 kg; height = 161 ± 5 cm) performed concentric quadriceps and hamstrings, and eccentric hamstrings muscle actions at different angular velocities (60, 180, and 300°·s⁻¹ concentric; 60 and 180°·s⁻¹ eccentric) before and after a bout of PNF stretching, and a control condition. Results: Neither PNF or control conditions affected concentric PT or H:Q ratios (p > 0.05), apart from knee extension at 60°·s⁻¹ in men (p = 0.001). However, there was a reduction in hamstrings eccentric PT in both control and PNF conditions for men and women (p = 0.003). Conclusions: PNF stretching of the hamstrings may not adversely affect the H:Q ratios, and consequently not negatively affect injury risk associated with muscular strength imbalances. Full article