Effect of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Techniques on Elderly People with Scapular Disposition

Effect of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Techniques on Balance and Gait Characteristics of Elderly People with Scapular Disposition: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) has been defined as a comprehensive rehabilitation approach focusing on a motor learning effect, especially in the elderly. Therefore, PNF can be an effective treatment method for our purpose which is to analyze if PNF techniques improve balance and gait characteristics in elderly with scapular disposition and to determine the difference when used with the gait education

Participants will be randomly divided into 2 groups. Scapular PNF techniques in addition to gait training will be applied to the 1st group for 8 weeks, and only gait training exercises will be applied to the 2nd group for 8 weeks. Individuals will be evaluated in detail at the beginning, and end of the study, and after 3 months as a follow-up evaluation. For the assessment of scapular disposition, the Visual Scapular Disposition Test and Lateral Scapular Slide Test will be applied. Walking Speed will be evaluated with a dedicated area by measuring the distance. The Modified Dynamic Gait Index will be used for measuring the ability of the participant to maintain walking balance while responding to different task demands. For fall risks and functional mobility Timed Up and Go Test and Falls Efficacy Scale will be used. For balance assessment Berg Balance Scale and Functional Reach Test. For assessment of the quality of life, SF-36 will be used. Posture will be assessed with a dedicated application called PostureCo

Inclusion Criteria:

• Having scapular disposition (Patients will be determined after the visual scapular disposition test and lateral scapular slide test)
• With no injuries
• Able to walk without any assistive devices
• To be able to read and write in Turkish

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having a musculoskeletal or neurological problem that causes issues with applying the intervention.
• Any orthopedic, neurological, cardiac, vestibular, visual, or psychiatric impairment which would not allow them to perform
• Had physiotherapy during the past 3 months