Efficacy of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Technique in Patients with Cervical-Originated Arm Pain on Pain and Functional Disability: A Single-Arm Pilot Trial

Background: Cervical-originated arm pain (COAP) occurs when a cervical nerve root is affected, causing pain and muscle weakness that can lead to disability. The PNF technique concentrates on activating both the agonist and antagonist muscle groups to enhance neuromuscular control and improve functional movement patterns. The current study aimed to determine the effectiveness of PNF for cervical-originated arm pain. Method: 10 patients with COAP received treatment using PNF and conventional physiotherapy for 2 weeks (6 sessions per week). Pre- and post-test data were collected for arm pain using the NPRS 101, neck pain and disability using the NPAD, and upper extremity disability using the Quick DASH Questionnaire, and were analysed. Results: Results showed statistically significant improvement (p<0.05) in all outcomes. Conclusions: This study concluded that the use of PNF to treat COAP is effective in clinical practice.