The efficacy of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) in patients with stroke

Abstract

Background: Stroke is one of the most common central nervous system disorders. Early intervention through the Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) technique can contribute to the better physiotherapy treatment of the person with stroke by improving the quality of their movement and reducing their functional limitations.Aim: The aim of this review is to describe recent research data on the efficacy of this method in improving functioning in patients with stroke.Method: The Google Scholar and PubMed databases were searched with the following keywords: stroke, PNF, rehabilitation. Results: This review included 10 articles. Discussion - Conclusions: The application of the PNF method seems to have a positive effect on the treatment of movement disorders in patients with stroke when compared to conventional physiotherapy. The results of this review show that the intensive initiation of the PNF method is able to improve the functional level of the person with stroke in their daily life.