Muscle Energy Technique

Muscle Energy Technique is an osteopathic technique for mobilizing joints and soft tissue using muscle contraction. There are several distinct techniques which may be called muscle energy techniques including reciprocal inhibition, and post-isometric relaxation. Muscle Energy is an Active (requires patient utilization of force) Direct (engages the barrier) technique that promotes muscle relaxation by activating the golgi tendon reflex. It has also been proposed that temporary muscle fatigue blocks reflex-contraction thus allowing for an increase of range of motion to beyond the barrier. Its purpose is to gain motion that is limited by restrictions of neuromuscular structures.