The Effect of Using Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Technique in Enhancing the Effectiveness of the Rehabilitation Program for Children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) in Tripoli City

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to determine the effect of using PNF (Physio-Neurological Facilitation) as an addition to the traditional rehabilitation program for children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP), and to measure its impact on reducing pain, improving range of motion, increasing muscle strength, and enhancing functional performance in children. An experimental design was used, employing a pre- and post-test method with two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The study sample consisted of 20 children with cerebral palsy, aged 6-12 years, who were randomly divided into two equal groups: an experimental group (n=10) that underwent a rehabilitation program integrated with PNF, and a control group (n=10) that underwent the traditional rehabilitation program only. The program was implemented for three months, with three sessions per week. The results showed statistically significant differences at the 0.05 level between the pre- and post-tests for the experimental group in all variables, favoring the post-test. The results also revealed statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups. The post-test results favored the experimental group, which achieved a significant improvement in pain reduction (71%) and in range of motion and muscle strength compared to the control group that received only traditional therapy. This makes it a valuable addition to rehabilitation programs for patients with cerebral palsy.