Muscle Energy Techniques Overview

What is the first step in Lewit's postisometric relaxation method?

In Janda's postfacilitation stretch method, how long should the isometric contraction last?

Which of the following techniques uses antagonist contraction?

What is another name for strengthening variation?

What degree of effort is recommended for isometric contraction in Lewit's method?

How long should the patient relax after the rapid stretch in Janda's method?

Strengthening variation involves starting with maximal contraction.

What precludes the use of usual agonist contraction in reciprocal inhibition variation?

Muscle Energy Techniques (MET)

MET is a type of manual therapy that uses isometric muscle contractions to improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension.
MET techniques utilize the principles of reciprocal inhibition and post-isometric relaxation.

Variations of MET

Lewit's Postisometric Relaxation Method:
- Aims to reduce muscle hypertonicity.
- Involves isometric contraction of the hypertonic muscle against resistance.
- Requires minimal effort (20% of available strength).
- Followed by passive stretching to a new barrier.
- Procedure repeated 2-3 times.
Janda's Postfacilitation Stretch Method:
- Involves a stronger isometric contraction than Lewit’s method.
- Muscle is placed in a mid-range position.
- Maximum effort contraction for 5-10 seconds against resistance.
- Followed by a rapid stretch to a new barrier, held for at least 10 seconds.
- Repeated 3-5 times.
Reciprocal Inhibition Variation:
- Primarily used in acute settings where tissue damage or pain limits the use of agonist contraction.
- Focuses on antagonist muscle contraction.
- Muscle is placed in a mid-range position.
- Involves isometric or isotonic muscle contraction, followed by passive lengthening during full inhalation and exhalation.
Strengthening Variation:
- Also known as isokinetic contraction or progressive resisted exercise.
- Involves increasing muscle strength with a progressive increase in contraction effort.
- Identifies areas of weakness during full range of motion.
- Emphasizes strengthening weak musculature in areas of limited mobility.

Explore the principles and variations of Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) used in manual therapy. Learn about Lewit's Postisometric Relaxation Method, Janda's Postfacilitation Stretch Method, and the concept of reciprocal inhibition that underpins these techniques. Improve your understanding of these effective modalities for muscle tension relief and improved joint mobility.