Abstract: ObjectiveTo examine the effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation(PNF) techniques on lower limb motor function of strokes and its mechanism.MethodsWe used simple random sampling and cross-section survey design. PNF Contract Relax Agonist Contract(PNF-CRAC) techniques were applied to 44 stroke patients. Surface electromyography values(sEMG) was recorded from rectus femoris and hamstring of stroke patients with both low limbs. ResultsPNF-CRAC techniques not only caused the irradiation of muscles activities in the contralateral extremity during unilateral exercise, but also increased agonist EMG activities and the motor control of knee joint in strokes.ConclusionPNF-CRAC techniques can improve the knee stability and enhance the recovery of motor function in paretic lower limb.

Key words: stroke, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation, motor control, surface electromyography