The effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques compared to aerobic exercise on balance, fear of falling, and quality of life in older adults: a randomized controlled trial

Background Aging is a long-term and unalterable phenomenon with changes in various systems such as cardiovascular, respiratory, neuromusculoskeletal, and vestibular. Exercise and physical activity reduce the progression of aging complications. Therefore, we examined the effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques compared to aerobic exercise on balance, fear of falling, and quality of life in older adults. Methods Fifty-two older adults aged over 60 years (31 males, 21 females) were included. After initial evaluation, individuals were randomly assigned into two treatment groups (PNF techniques and aerobic exercise). Both treatment groups received 12 treatment sessions over 4 weeks. Balance, fear of falling, and quality of life were assessed at baseline and after a 4-week intervention. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and paired samples t-test were utilized to between and within-group changes of variables. Results The results showed no significant differences in balance, fear of falling, and quality of life between groups after the intervention (P > 0.05). In within-group comparison, only the berg balance scale (BBS) significantly improved after the intervention (P < 0.05). Conclusion The findings suggest that PNF techniques in comparison with aerobic exercise could not contribute to improvement in balance, fear of falling, and quality of life. Therefore, more clinical trial studies with a control group are needed to determine the exact effects of these techniques. Trial Registration Number (TRN) and date of registration: The trial was registered at the (https://www.irct.ir), (IRCT20210505051181N4) on 9/2/2023.