Effects of Core Strengthening With Pelvic Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Trunk Control and Balance in Patients With Sub-acute Stroke

Interventions FITT Principle Intervention was given for 60 min per session (30 + 30 mins for each group), including 3 sets with10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise (this FITT principle for core stabilization and trunk control exercises). For PNF technique each technique was applied for 3 sets of 2 min duration each with 30 sec between each set and 2 min rest after each technique.

Once a day, 5 times per week for 6 weeks for both groups. Groups There were two groups Groups 1 (interventional group) Groups 2 (control group) Groups 1 (interventional group) Participants who were included in this group got Pelvic Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques + core strengthening group + Trunk control exercises (Conventional treatment).

Core stabilization exercises techniques Core activated by Bio Feedback apparatus and participants were given instructions to do trunk curls in crook lying position. Asked to lift their upper trunk slightly (15 degree) from the plinth. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques The sequence was rhythmic initiation, slow reversal then agonistic reversals. each technique was applied for 3 sets of 2 min duration each with 30 sec between each set and 2 min rest after each technique. A stopwatch was used to measure the time.

Trunk control exercises Different trunk exercises were performed by the participants to develop trunk control and balance. Rhythmic stabilization, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Bridging, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, are the trunk exercises which were used conventionally to develop trunk control. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.

Groups 2 (control group) Participants in group 2 received Core stabilization exercises + Conventional trunk control exercises (Rhythmic stabilization, Bridging, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning) exercises. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.

Core stabilization exercises techniques Core activated by Bio Feedback apparatus and participants were given instructions to do trunk curls in crook lying position. Asked to lift their upper trunk slightly (15 degree) from the plinth. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.

Trunk control exercises Different trunk exercises were performed by the participants to develop trunk control and balance. Rhythmic stabilization, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Bridging, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, are the trunk exercises which were used conventionally to develop trunk control. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.

Outcomes Measures Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) is a standardized scale to assess the trunk function and stability in stroke patients(39). We used the pre- and post-intervention scores of Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) to evaluate trunk function and stability.

Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is identified as the most commonly used as an evaluation tool in the stroke rehabilitation(40). We used the pre- and post-intervention scores of Berg Balance Scale (BBS) to evaluate the balance.

Data Collection Procedure The study was conducted by informed consent from participants. Assessment was performed before the intervention and after the intervention (after 6 weeks) from Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Pre-interventional and post interventional scores were documented and analyzed the according to the statistical method.

Inclusion criteria

• Participants between the ages of 45 and 60 years.
• Sub-acute phase of unilateral ischemic stroke.
• More than two weeks but no more than six months were included.
• Participants should be able to walk with or without support for 2-4 min.
• Participants with modified Ashworth scale grade 1 or grade 2.
• Participants should be able to understand and follow simple verbal instructions (Mini-Mental Status Examination [MMSE]≥24).

Exclusion criteria

• Participants with recurrent stroke; brainstem or cerebellar stroke or hemorrhagic stroke.
• Participants with modified Ashworth scale grade ≥3 (severe spasticity).