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KMID : 0357220100220010039
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Journal of Korean Society Physical Therapy
2010 Volume.22 No. 1 p.39 ~ p.45
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Effect of a PNF Training Program on Functional Assessment Measures and Gait Parameters in Healthy Older Adults
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Ma Sang-Yeol
Kim Hyeong-Dong
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Abstract
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Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine changes in functional assessment measures (FAMs) and spatiotemporal gait parameters (STGPs) in healthy older adults before and after a 6-week intervention of a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) training program.
Methods: Thirty healthy older adults (mean age: age range: 65-79) were randomly assigned either to an experimental group (participating in a 6-week intervention of PNF training) or a control group (only performing daily activities). Participants in the control group did not receive any training program. Performance was assessed by recording changes in the FAMs and STGPs using functional assessment tools and GAITRite.
Results: Participants in the PNF group showed significantly improved functional assessment measures and increased stride length, cadence, velocity, and step width (p<0.05). No significant differences in FAMs and STGPs were found in the control group (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Participation in a PNF training program improves FAMs and STGPs, thereby increasing the ability of healthy older adults to maintain dynamic balance during functional performance and gait. These findings support the use of PNF training programs as effective fall-prevention programs for the elderly.
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KEYWORD
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Falls, Functional assessment measures, Gait, Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation
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