Clinical Research Directory

PNF Versus Conventional Exercise in Older Women at Increased Risk of Sarcopenia

Sponsor: Uşak University

Summary

Age-related declines in muscle strength and physical performance may impair balance, mobility, and independence in older adults. Exercise may help preserve these functions; however, thethe comparative benefits of PNF-based exercise versus conventional exercise remain unclear in older women who screen positive for sarcopenia risk. This randomized study compared a PNF-based exercise program with conventional exercise in community-dwelling women aged 65 years or older with SARC-F scores of 4 or higher. Although all participants screened positive for sarcopenia risk, none met the criteria for confirmed sarcopenia according to the revised European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People framework (EWGSOP2). Forty participants were randomly allocated to two groups, with 20 participants in each group. Thirty-four participants completed the study and were included in the analysis, with 17 participants in each group. Both groups followed a 10-week exercise program comprising three sessions per week, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes. The first three sessions were conducted at the clinic under physiotherapist supervision. The remaining sessions were performed independently at home, with adherence monitored through weekly telephone follow-up. The conventional exercise program included lower-extremity strengthening, balance training, functional mobility exercises, sit-to-stand practice, gait exercises, and stretching. The PNF-based program incorporated diagonal and multiplanar movement patterns and task-oriented functional movements into conventional therapeutic exercises. Manual contacts, manual resistance, and hands-on facilitation were used only during the first three supervised sessions. Participants were assessed at baseline and at one and three months after completion of the 10-week program. Outcomes included balance, functional mobility, walking capacity, lower-extremity functional strength, stair performance, falls efficacy, and depressive symptoms. Assessments included the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, 6-Minute Walk Test, Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test, stair ascent and descent test, Tinetti Falls Efficacy Scale, and 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale.

Official title: Comparative Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation and Conventional Exercise on Balance, Mobility, and Fall-Related Outcomes in Older Older Women at Increased Risk of Sarcopenia

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