Muscle Energy Techniques

What is it?

Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) play an important part in physiotherapy. The patient activates their muscles with guidance from the therapist. Contraction of the patient’s soft tissues (muscles) provides the primary force used to help correct musculoskeletal dysfunction. The patient works from a controlled position, in a specific direction, against resistance from the therapist’s hands. This voluntary muscle contraction helps muscles relax and lengthen, allowing the joint to move normally without restriction.

What are the benefits?

MET aims to restore normal joint range of movement and release muscular restrictions. If neck pain limits someone to turning their head through 70° rather than the normal 90°, for example, it can restore normal mobility. It is especially valuable when hypertonic or shortened muscles reduce joint mobility. MET can improve the range and timing of muscle activation, reduce weakness and prepare the musculoskeletal system for stretching. Very good results appear to occur in patients with shortened hamstrings, reduced neck movement, kyphotic patterns, scoliosis and hip dysfunction, among other problems.