Core strengthening with pelvic PNF to improve trunk control and balance after sub-acute ischemic stroke
Official title: Effects of Core Strengthening With Pelvic Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Trunk Control and Balance in Patients With Sub-acute Stroke
Run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences · NCT07381491 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This will test whether adding pelvic proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) to core strengthening and standard trunk exercises improves trunk control and balance in people aged 45–60 recovering from a sub-acute ischemic stroke.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 45 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 38 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 25, 2025 |
| Main results expected | May 25, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | February 2, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07381491 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are people aged 45–60 with a first unilateral ischemic stroke in the sub-acute phase (2 weeks to 6 months), able to walk for 2–4 minutes, with mild-to-moderate spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale 1–2) and an MMSE ≥24.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with recurrent stroke, brainstem or cerebellar or hemorrhagic stroke, severe spasticity (MAS ≥3), significant cognitive impairment, or who cannot attend frequent hospital sessions are unlikely to benefit from this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Participants with unilateral sub-acute ischemic stroke are assigned to either an intervention group receiving pelvic PNF plus core stabilization and conventional trunk-control exercises or a control group receiving conventional trunk-control exercises alone. Sessions are delivered once daily, five days per week for six weeks, with each session lasting about 60 minutes and following a specified FITT schedule of sets, repetitions, and rest periods; PNF sequences include rhythmic initiation, slow reversal, and agonistic reversals. Core stabilization uses biofeedback-guided trunk curls and timed repetitions, and PNF techniques are applied in timed sets with stopwatch monitoring. Outcomes focus on changes in trunk control and balance after the 6-week program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, adding pelvic PNF could improve trunk stability and balance, leading to better mobility and reduced fall risk during recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Prior small trials and rehabilitation programs using PNF and core-strengthening techniques have reported improvements in trunk control and balance, but evidence is limited and results have been mixed.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Participants between the ages of 45 and 60 years. * Sub-acute phase of unilateral ischemic stroke. * More than two weeks but no more than six months were included. * Participants should be able to walk with or without support for 2-4 min. * Participants with modified Ashworth scale grade 1 or grade 2. * Participants should be able to understand and follow simple verbal instructions (Mini-Mental Status Examination \[MMSE\]≥24). Exclusion Criteria: * Participants with recurrent stroke; brainstem or cerebellar stroke or hemorrhagic stroke. * Participants with modified Ashworth scale grade ≥3 (severe spasticity).
Where it's running
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Ghurki Trust & Teaching Hospital
Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Talha Mumtaz, Doctor of Physical Therapy
- Email: drtalhamumtaz@gmail.com
- Phone: 03351736446
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.