StrokeNCT07381491
Effects of Core Strengthening With Pelvic Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Trunk Control and Balance in Patients With Sub-acute Stroke
A study testing Core stabilization exercises and PNF in people with Stroke, run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
Purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of core stabilization with pelvic proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on trunk control and balance which will be provided an evidence-based selection of the best possible intervention to improve trunk function and balance as compared to the trunk control… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 45 to 60 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Stroke
- What is being tested?
- Core stabilization exercises and PNF
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 38 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 25 Nov 2025to 30 May 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 45 to 60 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Participants between the ages of 45 and 60 years.
- Sub-acute phase of unilateral ischemic stroke.
- More than two weeks but no more than six months were included.
- Participants should be able to walk with or without support for 2-4 min.
- Participants with modified Ashworth scale grade 1 or grade 2.
- Participants should be able to understand and follow simple verbal instructions (Mini-Mental Status Examination [MMSE]≥24).
Who cannot join
- Participants with recurrent stroke; brainstem or cerebellar stroke or hemorrhagic stroke.
- Participants with modified Ashworth scale grade ≥3 (severe spasticity).
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Ghurki Trust & Teaching Hospital
Rawalpindi, Punjab Province
NABEELA, NMPT, 03315337445, nabeelasafdar@gmail.com
About this study
Purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of core stabilization with pelvic proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on trunk control and balance which will be provided an evidence-based selection of the best possible intervention to improve trunk function and balance as compared to the trunk control exercises such as Rhythmic stabilization, Bridging, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, which one can provide the better balance and trunk control in sub-acute stroke patients.
Read the detailed description
Interventions FITT Principle Intervention was given for 60 min per session (30 + 30 mins for each group), including 3 sets with10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise (this FITT principle for core stabilization and trunk control exercises). For PNF technique each technique was applied for 3 sets of 2 min duration each with 30 sec between each set and 2 min rest after each technique.
Once a day, 5 times per week for 6 weeks for both groups. Groups There were two groups Groups 1 (interventional group) Groups 2 (control group) Groups 1 (interventional group) Participants who were included in this group got Pelvic Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques + core strengthening group + Trunk control exercises (Conventional treatment).
Core stabilization exercises techniques Core activated by Bio Feedback apparatus and participants were given instructions to do trunk curls in crook lying position. Asked to lift their upper trunk slightly (15 degree) from the plinth. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques The sequence was rhythmic initiation, slow reversal then agonistic reversals. each technique was applied for 3 sets of 2 min duration each with 30 sec between each set and 2 min rest after each technique. A stopwatch was used to measure the time.
Trunk control exercises Different trunk exercises were performed by the participants to develop trunk control and balance. Rhythmic stabilization, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Bridging, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, are the trunk exercises which were used conventionally to develop trunk control. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Groups 2 (control group) Participants in group 2 received Core stabilization exercises + Conventional trunk control exercises (Rhythmic stabilization, Bridging, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning) exercises. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Core stabilization exercises techniques Core activated by Bio Feedback apparatus and participants were given instructions to do trunk curls in crook lying position. Asked to lift their upper trunk slightly (15 degree) from the plinth. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Trunk control exercises Different trunk exercises were performed by the participants to develop trunk control and balance. Rhythmic stabilization, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Bridging, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, are the trunk exercises which were used conventionally to develop trunk control. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Outcomes Measures Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) is a standardized scale to assess the trunk function and stability in stroke patients(39). We used the pre- and post-intervention scores of Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) to evaluate trunk function and stability.
Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is identified as the most commonly used as an evaluation tool in the stroke rehabilitation(40). We used the pre- and post-intervention scores of Berg Balance Scale (BBS) to evaluate the balance.
Data Collection Procedure The study was conducted by informed consent from participants. Assessment was performed before the intervention and after the intervention (after 6 weeks) from Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Pre-interventional and post interventional scores were documented and analyzed the according to the statistical method.
- Conditions
- Stroke
- Being tested
- Core stabilization exercises, PNF, Trunk control exercises
- Keywords
- Stroke, PNF, Core Strengthening, Trunk control, Balance Impairment
- Medical subject headings
- Stroke
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Core stabilization exercisesOther
Core activated by Bio Feedback apparatus and participants were given instructions to do trunk curls in crook lying position. Asked to lift their upper trunk slightly (15 degree) from the plinth. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
PNFOther
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques The sequence was rhythmic initiation, slow reversal then agonistic reversals. each technique was applied for 3 sets of 2 min duration each with 30 sec between each set and 2 min rest after each technique. A stopwatch was used to measure the time.
Trunk control exercisesOther
Trunk control exercises Different trunk exercises were performed by the participants to develop trunk control and balance. Rhythmic stabilization, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Bridging, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, are the trunk exercises which were used conventionally to develop trunk control. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Experimental Group | Experimental | Participants who were included in this group got Pelvic Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques + core strengthening group + Trunk control exercises (Conventional treatment). Receives: Other: Core stabilization exercises; Other: PNF; Other: Trunk control exercises |
| Control Group | Other | Participants in group 2 received Core stabilization exercises + Conventional trunk control exercises (Rhythmic stabilization, Bridging, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning) exercises. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise. Receives: Other: Core stabilization exercises; Other: Trunk control exercises |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Trunk Impairment Scale
The Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) is a 17-item clinical tool assessing stroke patients across three subscales-static sitting balance (0-7 points), dynamic sitting balance (0--10points), and trunk coordination (0-6 points)-totaling a maximum score of 23. Higher scores indicate better, more controlled, and coordinated trunk function, with evaluations performed in a seated position.
Measured: • Baseline • After 6 weeks
Berg Balance Scale
Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is identified as the most commonly used as an evaluation tool in the stroke rehabilitation. We used the pre- and post-intervention scores of Berg Balance Scale (BBS) to evaluate the balance. Total score of berg balance scale is 56.Highest score shows the low fall risk and the lowest score shows the high fall risk.
Measured: • Baseline • After 6 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted2 Feb 2026
- Study start25 Nov 2025
- Primary completion25 May 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion30 May 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for StrokeStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 38 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- NABEELA Dawood, Study chair, Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07381491
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- UBAS/ERB/FoRS/25/21686
- Status last verified
- Jan 2026
- First submitted
- 23 Dec 2025
- Last updated
- 2 Feb 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 2 Feb 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Core Strengthening With Pelvic Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Trunk Control and Balance in Patients With Sub-acute Stroke
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07381491
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- UBAS/ERB/FoRS/25/21686
- Conditions
- Stroke
- Keywords
- Stroke, PNF, Core Strengthening, Trunk control, Balance Impairment
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 38 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 25 Nov 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 25 May 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 May 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 2 Feb 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of core stabilization with pelvic proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on trunk control and balance which will be provided an evidence-based selection of the best possible intervention to improve trunk function and balance as compared to the trunk control exercises such as Rhythmic stabilization, Bridging, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, which one can provide the better balance and trunk control in sub-acute stroke patients.
Detailed description
Interventions FITT Principle Intervention was given for 60 min per session (30 + 30 mins for each group), including 3 sets with10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise (this FITT principle for core stabilization and trunk control exercises). For PNF technique each technique was applied for 3 sets of 2 min duration each with 30 sec between each set and 2 min rest after each technique.
Once a day, 5 times per week for 6 weeks for both groups. Groups There were two groups Groups 1 (interventional group) Groups 2 (control group) Groups 1 (interventional group) Participants who were included in this group got Pelvic Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques + core strengthening group + Trunk control exercises (Conventional treatment).
Core stabilization exercises techniques Core activated by Bio Feedback apparatus and participants were given instructions to do trunk curls in crook lying position. Asked to lift their upper trunk slightly (15 degree) from the plinth. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques The sequence was rhythmic initiation, slow reversal then agonistic reversals. each technique was applied for 3 sets of 2 min duration each with 30 sec between each set and 2 min rest after each technique. A stopwatch was used to measure the time.
Trunk control exercises Different trunk exercises were performed by the participants to develop trunk control and balance. Rhythmic stabilization, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Bridging, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, are the trunk exercises which were used conventionally to develop trunk control. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Groups 2 (control group) Participants in group 2 received Core stabilization exercises + Conventional trunk control exercises (Rhythmic stabilization, Bridging, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning) exercises. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Core stabilization exercises techniques Core activated by Bio Feedback apparatus and participants were given instructions to do trunk curls in crook lying position. Asked to lift their upper trunk slightly (15 degree) from the plinth. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Trunk control exercises Different trunk exercises were performed by the participants to develop trunk control and balance. Rhythmic stabilization, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Bridging, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, are the trunk exercises which were used conventionally to develop trunk control. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise.
Outcomes Measures Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) is a standardized scale to assess the trunk function and stability in stroke patients(39). We used the pre- and post-intervention scores of Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) to evaluate trunk function and stability.
Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is identified as the most commonly used as an evaluation tool in the stroke rehabilitation(40). We used the pre- and post-intervention scores of Berg Balance Scale (BBS) to evaluate the balance.
Data Collection Procedure The study was conducted by informed consent from participants. Assessment was performed before the intervention and after the intervention (after 6 weeks) from Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Pre-interventional and post interventional scores were documented and analyzed the according to the statistical method.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Experimental Group | Experimental | Other: Core stabilization exercises, Other: PNF, Other: Trunk control exercisesParticipants who were included in this group got Pelvic Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques + core strengthening group + Trunk control exercises (Conventional treatment). |
| Control Group | Other | Other: Core stabilization exercises, Other: Trunk control exercisesParticipants in group 2 received Core stabilization exercises + Conventional trunk control exercises (Rhythmic stabilization, Bridging, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning) exercises. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 45 to 60 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Participants between the ages of 45 and 60 years.
- Sub-acute phase of unilateral ischemic stroke.
- More than two weeks but no more than six months were included.
- Participants should be able to walk with or without support for 2-4 min.
- Participants with modified Ashworth scale grade 1 or grade 2.
Key exclusion criteria (2 listed)
- Participants with recurrent stroke; brainstem or cerebellar stroke or hemorrhagic stroke.
- Participants with modified Ashworth scale grade ≥3 (severe spasticity).
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Core stabilization exercisesCore activated by Bio Feedback apparatus and participants were given instructions to do trunk curls in crook lying position. Asked to lift their upper trunk slightly (15 degree) from the plinth. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise. | Other | Control Group, Experimental Group |
| PNFProprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques The sequence was rhythmic initiation, slow reversal then agonistic reversals. each technique was applied for 3 sets of 2 min duration each with 30 sec between each set and 2 min rest after each technique. A stopwatch was used to measure the time. | Other | Experimental Group |
| Trunk control exercisesTrunk control exercises Different trunk exercises were performed by the participants to develop trunk control and balance. Rhythmic stabilization, Side-Lying Trunk Lifts, Bridging, Quadruped, Kneeling and modified plantigrade positioning, are the trunk exercises which were used conventionally to develop trunk control. 3 sets with 10 repetitions each, 3 sec rest between each repetition, 1 min rest after each set and 3 min rest between each exercise. | Other | Control Group, Experimental Group |
Primary outcome
Trunk Impairment Scale
Time frame: • Baseline • After 6 weeks
The Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) is a 17-item clinical tool assessing stroke patients across three subscales-static sitting balance (0-7 points), dynamic sitting balance (0--10points), and trunk coordination (0-6 points)-totaling a maximum score of 23. Higher scores indicate better, more controlled, and coordinated trunk function, with evaluations performed in a seated position.
Berg Balance Scale
Time frame: • Baseline • After 6 weeks
Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is identified as the most commonly used as an evaluation tool in the stroke rehabilitation. We used the pre- and post-intervention scores of Berg Balance Scale (BBS) to evaluate the balance. Total score of berg balance scale is 56.Highest score shows the low fall risk and the lowest score shows the high fall risk.
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 2 Feb 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
NABEELA Dawood study chair
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Core stabilization exercises and PNF in people with Stroke, run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 2 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 2 Feb 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Talha Mumtaz, Doctor of Physical Therapy (03351736446, drtalhamumtaz@gmail.com), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Trunk Impairment Scale (time frame: • Baseline • After 6 weeks). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 2 Feb 2026.