Effect of Goal Oriented Dual Task Training Versus Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Balance and Gait in Post Stroke Subjects

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Balance and gait disturbances frequently occur following a stroke. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of goal oriented dual task training combined with conventional physiotherapy versus Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation combined with conventional physiotherapy for improving balance and gait in post stroke subjects. METHODS: Quasi experimental study design, in this study, A total of 76 subjects were assessed. 4 subjects were excluded out of which 72 eligible participants were randomly allocated into two groups. The subjects in Group A (n = 36) received Goal oriented dual task training and Group B (n = 36) received Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation. Subjects received intervention 5 days a week for 6 weeks. The BBS and TUG were used to assess the intervention effectiveness. RESULTS: Statistical analysis revealed that baseline values were similar between the groups (p>0.05). Post-intervention results demonstrated that Group A achieved a higher mean Berg Balance Scale score (48.1 ± 1.53) compared with Group B (41.26 ± 2.37). Similarly, Group A showed a lower mean Timed Up and Go score (14.06 ± 1.50) than Group B (18.03 ± 3.38). These differences were statistically significant (p=0.001), indicating greater improvement in balance and functional mobility in Group A compared with Group B. CONCLUSION: Both interventions resulted in significant improvements in balance and gait among individuals with stroke; however, goal-oriented dual-task training combined with conventional physiotherapy demonstrated superior efficacy compared with PNF-based rehabilitation. Keywords: Post stroke, balance, gait, goal oriented dual task training, neuroplasticity, Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, Conventional Physiotherapy, BBS, TUG.