Author Question: Summarize the steps required for PNF stretching. ... (Read 35 times)

dakota nelson

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 604
Summarize the steps required for PNF stretching.

Question 2

Discuss the importance of adequate flexibility for older adults and how stretching exercises can help.



Edwyer

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 337
Answer to Question 1

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching is based on a contract-and-relax method and requires the assistance of another person. The procedure is as follows:
1 . The person assisting with the exercise provides initial force by pushing slowly in the direction of the desired stretch. This first stretch does not cover the entire range of motion.
2 . The person being stretched then applies force in the opposite direction of the stretch, against the assistant, who tries to hold the initial degree of stretch as close as possible. This results in an isometric contraction at the angle of the stretch. The force of the isometric contraction can be anywhere from 20 to 75 percent of the person's maximum contraction.
3 . After 3 to 6 seconds of isometric contraction, the person being stretched relaxes the target muscle or muscles completely. The assistant then increases the degree of stretch slowly to a greater angle, and for the PNF technique, the stretch is held for 10 to 30 seconds.
4 . If a greater degree of stretch is achievable, the isometric contraction is repeated for another 3 or 6 seconds, after which the degree of stretch is slowly increased again and held for 10 to 30 seconds.
5 . If a progressive degree of stretch is used, steps 1 through 4 can be repeated up to five times. Each isometric contraction is held for 3 to 6 seconds. The progressive stretches are held for about 10 secondsuntil the last trial, when the final stretched position is held for up to 30 seconds.

Answer to Question 2

Good range of motion is critical in older life. Muscle elasticity and bone strength both tend to decline as people age. Because of decreased flexibility, older adults lose mobility and may be unable to perform simple daily tasks such as bending forward or turning. Many older adults cannot turn their head or rotate their trunk to look over their shoulder but, rather, must step around 90 to 180 degrees to see behind them. Adequate flexibility is also important in driving. Individuals who lose range of motion with age are unable to look over their shoulder to switch lanes or to parallel-park, which increases the risk for automobile accidents. Physical activity and exercise can be hampered severely by lack of good range of motion. Lack of flexibility also may be a cause of falls and subsequent injury in older adults. A simple stretching program can alleviate or prevent reduced flexibility and help people return to an exercise program.



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question

dakota nelson

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 604
Thank you!



Edwyer

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 337
Always glad to help...



 

Did you know?

Pubic lice (crabs) are usually spread through sexual contact. You cannot catch them by using a public toilet.

Did you know?

Despite claims by manufacturers, the supplement known as Ginkgo biloba was shown in a study of more than 3,000 participants to be ineffective in reducing development of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in older people.

Did you know?

The most common treatment options for addiction include psychotherapy, support groups, and individual counseling.

Did you know?

Every flu season is different, and even healthy people can get extremely sick from the flu, as well as spread it to others. The flu season can begin as early as October and last as late as May. Every person over six months of age should get an annual flu vaccine. The vaccine cannot cause you to get influenza, but in some seasons, may not be completely able to prevent you from acquiring influenza due to changes in causative viruses. The viruses in the flu shot are killed—there is no way they can give you the flu. Minor side effects include soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given. It is possible to develop a slight fever, and body aches, but these are simply signs that the body is responding to the vaccine and making itself ready to fight off the influenza virus should you come in contact with it.

Did you know?

The familiar sounds of your heart are made by the heart's valves as they open and close.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library