Investigation of the Effects of PNF and Kinesiological Taping on Hand Function in Hemiplegic Stroke Patients Based on the ICF Framework

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and kinesiology taping (KT) affect hand function in adults who have hemiplegia caused by stroke. The study also examines how these treatments impact body structure, activity, and participation based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). The trial aims to compare whether PNF or kinesio taping offers different benefits for improving hand functions and related abilities in stroke patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one receiving PNF therapy, another receiving kinesiology taping, and a third group receiving both treatments combined. Each group will undergo their assigned interventions three days a week for eight weeks. After each session, all groups will receive conventional treatment. PNF involves specific manual techniques targeting finger, wrist, and forearm movements, while kinesiology taping is applied from the fingers to the elbow and remains on for two days. The combined group receives both therapies according to these schedules. During the study, participants' hand functions will be assessed at the start and after completing 24 sessions using several tests, including the Fugl Meyer assessment, Action Research Arm Test, Box-Block Test, and Nine Hole Peg Test. Additional evaluations will measure environmental quality, upper extremity activity, and social adaptation. Researchers will monitor participant cooperation and cognitive status, and a blinded physiotherapist will re-evaluate outcomes to ensure unbiased results. The total participation duration is eight weeks of intervention with assessments at the beginning and end.

ICF-Based Effects of PNF and Kinesio Taping on Hand Function in Hemiplegic Stroke