Effect of Chest Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on the Respiratory Status of Post-stroke Survivor: A Systematic Review.

Respiratory complications are one of those complications that can determine a patient's prognosis in the acute state and are a commonly neglected complication in the chronic state. Respiratory complications can range from improper ventilation profusion to thick copious secretion which can slow the prognosis. Respiratory complications need to be addressed in order to ensure a good ventilation perfusion and in the long run increase the patient's quality of life. Chest physiotherapy helps in centralizing the secretions and aids in the removal of the secretions. There are many conventional techniques to aid the betterment of the respiratory position such as chest percussion, vibration, and shaking. The purpose of this study was to find the effectiveness of chest proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) in improving the pulmonary complications of post-stroke patients. The following articles have reviewed a more advanced technique to help remove secretion and increase vital capacity. All the reviewed articles used the chest PNF techniques and their variations as they provide tactile stimulus to lead to muscle contraction.