Effects of post-isometric relaxation and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation in older women with neck-related arm pain: a pilot feasibility study

Abstract

Aim: To compare the preliminary effects of post-isometric relaxation and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, each added to an identical standardised physiotherapy programme, on pain, disability, and cervical mobility in older women with neck-related arm pain. Materials and Methods: Eight women aged 53–74 years with non-traumatic neck pain radiating to the upper limb were consecutively recruited and allocated, using simple non-randomised sequential allocation, to a post-isometric relaxation group or a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation group. Both groups completed ten 60-minute physiotherapy sessions over five weeks; the respective intervention was additionally applied for 10–15 minutes after each session. Outcomes were pain intensity, Neck Disability Index score, and cervical range of motion. Results: Pain decreased in both groups, disability scores improved, and cervical mobility increased after treatment. The observed changes in several range-of-motion parameters and pain reduction were generally greater in the proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation group, while post-isometric relaxation was also associated with meaningful within-group improvement. Conclusions: Both approaches appear feasible and may support pain reduction and improved cervical mobility in older women with neck-related arm pain. Because of the very small, non-randomised pilot sample, the findings are exploratory and require confirmation in adequately powered randomised trials.