The Effect of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation to Cervical Spine Posture in Road Cyclists

Author: Bc. Hana Bezděková Title: The Effect of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation to Cervical Spine Posture in Road Cyclists Objectives: The aim of this diploma thesis is to assess the effect of 6 weeks proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation theraphy on posture of the cervical spine in road cyclists. Methods: This is a quaziexperimental study with general noninvasive examination. Photogammetry was used for evaluation of posture of the cervical spine and craniocervical flexion test was used to assess strength in deep neck flexors. The group that was examined consisted of 8 men and 2 women. Statistical analysis was performed using Shapiro-Wilk test, coupled t-test and regression. The siginificance level was set to α = 0,05. Cohen's d test was used to verify material significance. Results: There was no statistical and effect size significance found in input and output difference of craniovertebral angle in the experimental group after 6 weeks of PNF exercises. On the other hand, we have proven the statistical and effect size significance in strenght of deep cervical flexors before and after PNF treatment. Road cyclists are also, proportionally to time spent road cycling, more vulnerable to forward head posture. Keywords: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, road cyclists, cervical spin