Effect of upper extremity proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation combined with elastic resistance bands on respiratory muscle strength: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Elastic resistance bands (ERB) combined with proprioceptive neuromuscularfacilitation (PNF) are often used in resistance muscle training programs,which have potential effects on peripheral muscle strength. However, theeffects of the combination of ERB and PNF on respiratory muscle strengthwarrant further investigation.

Objectives

The assessment of the effects of PNF combined with ERB on respiratory musclestrength.

Method

Twenty healthy, right-handed females were included. Subjects were randomizedto either the resistance training program group (TG, n=10) or the controlgroup (CG, n=10). Maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) and inspiratory pressure(MIP) were measured before and after four weeks of an upper extremityresistance training program. The training protocol consisted of upperextremity PNF combined with ERB, with resistance selected from 1 repetitionmaximum protocol.

Results

PNF combined with ERB showed significant increases in MIP and MEP(p<0.05). In addition, there were significantdifferences between the TG and CG regarding ∆MIP (p=0.01) and ∆MEP(p=0.04).

Conclusions

PNF combined with ERB can have a positive impact on respiratory musclestrength. These results may be useful with respect to cardiopulmonarychronic diseases that are associated with reduced respiratory musclestrength.