Effect of Scapular and Pelvic Patterns of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Functional Mobility in Stroke Survivors.

INTRODUCTION

Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability worldwide, resulting in significant motor, sensory, and cognitive impairments that hinder independence and quality of life. Among the most debilitating consequences are impaired balance and an increased risk of falls, which contribute to reduced participation in daily activities, diminished self-confidence, and greater dependency. Hemiplegic gait patterns, postural instability, and impaired weight shifting are common, limiting functional recovery. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), a rehabilitation technique aimed at enhancing neuromuscular control, joint mobility, and muscle strength, is widely used in stroke recovery.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of scapular and pelvic patterns of PNF on functional mobility in stroke survivors.

METHODS

This was a quasi-experimental study conducted over six months in Karad. A total of 30 stroke patients were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to enrollment. Group A received scapular and pelvic PNF along with conventional physiotherapy, while Group B received only conventional physiotherapy. The intervention was administered for six weeks, and outcome measures included Barthel Index (BI) and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were performed to evaluate functional mobility.

RESULTS

Significant improvements were observed in both groups following treatment; however, Group A demonstrated greater improvement compared to Group B. Among the 30 stroke survivors, functional mobility and independence improved following intervention: in Group A (scapular-pelvic PNF), BI scores increased from 55.2 ± 8.4 to 75.6 ± 7.5, with a mean difference of 20.4 and a p-value of <0.0001, while Group B (control) improved from 56.0 ± 7.9 to 66.8 ± 8.1, showing a mean difference of 10.8 and a p-value of 0.0002. SIS scores showed similar trends: Group A increased from 52.4 ± 9.1 to 73.8 ± 8.2 (mean difference 21.4) with a p-value of <0.0001, and Group B from 53.1 ± 8.5 to 65.6 ± 9.0 (mean difference 12.5) with a p-value of 0.0003.

CONCLUSION

Stroke survivors who received scapular-pelvic PNF demonstrated significant improvements in functional mobility and independence, while the control group showed moderate gains. These findings suggest a potential benefit of targeted PNF intervention in enhancing post-stroke recovery and provide preliminary evidence supporting further investigation.