Does the replication technique in proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation enhance joint repositioning acuity more than repeating active knee flexion / extension in healthy individuals: a pilot quasi-randomized controlled trial

Abstract

This quasi-randomized controlled trial aimed to preliminarily compare the effects of knee jointrepositioning acuity between active knee flexion/extension exercises with and without the replication technique of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation. The participants were healthy individuals aged 18−25 years. Measurements were taken in a sitting position with blinding. The target knee angle was 45°.Active knee flexion/extension exercises were performed with or without the replication technique for 1min. Subsequently, the active repositioning test of the knee was repeated every 3 min, 10 times. Data of nine participants in each group were collected and analyzed. The group with replication demonstrated apoorer result in the active repositioning test than the group without replication at each time point after the intervention. These findings indicate it would be difficult to prevent sports injuries or improve sports performance of athletes by enhancing the joint position sense of the knee with the replication technique application before a sporting event.