A Comparative Analysis of Various Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Techniques on Muscle Flexibility Among Extended Sitting Posture Individuals

 

We are proud to announce the successful publication of a research paper by our academic staff of Faculty of Health Sciences, Nursing and Education (FOHSNE),

The research team from School of Physiotherapy, MAHSA University comprising Mr. Rahul Krishnan, Ong Siew Chee, Mr. Suvinlal Stalin and Ms. Nisha Acharry published their paper on ‘A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF VARIOUS PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION (PNF) TECHNIQUES ON MUSCLE FLEXIBILITY AMONG EXTENDED SITTING POSTURE INDIVIDUALS’ in the Turkish Journal of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation (Türk Fizyoterapi ve Rehabilitasyon Dergis). https://doi.org/10.21653/tjpr.1076651

Their paper reported that sitting for long periods of time can be detrimental to hamstring flexibility. The research compared different PNF stretching techniques for hamstring flexibility in university students, finding that the CRAC technique was the most effective.

This study was conducted by the MAHSA research team comprising a research scholar and members of the faculty, where they compared HR, Agonist Contraction, and CRAC PNF stretching techniques on 30 university students with extended sitting postures, finding CRAC to be the most effective.

The study used AKET to assess hamstring flexibility. The PNF stretching techniques were effective in improving hamstring flexibility among university students. Previous studies have shown different opinions on the most effective PNF technique. The study used a quantitative approach with a pretest-post-test design. The results showed all three techniques had a significant effect on hamstring flexibility. The perception of pain and flexibility may be influenced by the race of the participants.

The study showed a significant effect of CRAC, improving hamstring flexibility among male subjects with hamstring tightness,” Krishnan claimed. Discussing potential improvements, “AKET used in the study can address issues with SLRT, such as pelvic movement and neurological involvement. The study's unique findings may be attributed to the test procedure and outcome measures employed,” they admit.

They argue that future studies should focus on determining and comparing the sustainability of various techniques, with an emphasis on using a reliable electro-goniometer for more accurate range of motion measurements.

Congratulations to our MAHSA Physiotherapy Research team for their successful research and publication.