EFFECTS OF PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION (PNF) ON CARDIOVASCULAR RESPONSES ON YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

Background: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) is being a preferred method as one of the treatment plans to improve patient’s well-being by several physiotherapist in Malaysia. PNF is a stretching technique that has been practiced in improving the muscle elasticity, increasing the muscle thickness, dynamic balance and producing positive effects on active and passive range of motions. Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the short-term effects of PNF stretching exercises on blood pressure & heart rate among young adults. Methods: 50 subjects underwent the hold-relax PNF stretching exercise for upper limbs (biceps muscle) and lower limbs (hamstring muscle). All subjects were assigned to conduct 4 sets of a combination of passive movement, isometric contraction and passive stretching for both upper and lower limbs. Preliminary data (before exercise) and post-data (after exercise) for heart rate and blood pressure were measured and recorded. Results: A paired samples t-test was performed to compare lower limb pre-testing (SBP_LL_pretest) and post-testing (SBP_LL_posttest). The results showed that, there was a significant difference in the scores for SBP_LL_pretest (M=114.98, SD=8.714) and SBP_LL_posttest (M=118.86, SD=9.94); t (49) =-2.28, p=0.027. Conclusion: There was no significant difference for heart rate and diastolic blood pressure. However, significant changes present in systolic blood pressure of the participants/subjects.