MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUES
Basic concept of MET?
MET are a type of manual therapy technique used to lengthen, strengthen and improve the range of
movement of muscles. Your physiotherapist will resist the desired muscle while you contract it
and push against the physiotherapist. This contraction is held for about 5 seconds and the process
is repeated several times with a short rest in between.
Why go for MET
MET are based on reciprocal inhibition which is the theory that when a muscle is contracting,
the opposite muscle of the joint is relaxing. So as one muscle is contracting against your physiotherapist,
the opposite muscle is being stretched. MET allow the individual to contract and stretch the muscle to
its full potential and take the joint to its full range of movement. When this is repeated, gains can
be made in muscle flexibility and strength.
Where to utilise of MET?
MET can be used by healthy individuals to maintain muscle flexibility and to prevent injury. MET are also used as treatment for problems such as:
Pain inhibited movement of neck, shoulders and back.
Sciatica
Scoliosis
Contractures
Leg length discrepancy
Muscle injury
Muscle tightness
