Comparative Effects of Muscle Energy Technique and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching in the Management of Lower Cross Syndrome MET vs PNF in Lower Cross Syndrome
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Abstract
Background: Lower Cross Syndrome (LCS) results from muscle imbalance due to poor posture, causing tightness in lumbar and hip flexor muscles alongside weakness in abdominal and gluteal muscles. It leads to lumbar hyperlordosis, chronic low back pain, and functional disability.
Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Muscle Energy Techniques (METs) and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching in the management of LCS.
Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted with 60 participants, aged 18-45, diagnosed with LCS. Participants were divided into two groups: METs (n=30) and PNF stretching (n=30). Interventions were performed thrice a week for four weeks. Outcome measures included pain (NPRS), disability (Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire), hip extension range (goniometer), and anterior pelvic tilt. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 25, with non-parametric tests due to non-normal data distribution (p<0.05).
Results: The METs group showed greater improvement in post-treatment Oswestry scores (mean rank 19.30, p<0.001) and NPRS (mean rank 16.53, p<0.001), compared to the PNF group. Hip extension range and anterior pelvic tilt also improved significantly in the METs group (p<0.001).
Conclusion: METs were more effective than PNF stretching in managing LCS, significantly reducing pain and disability while improving range of motion.
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