Muscle Energy Technique (MET) is a manual therapy technique that uses the gentle muscle contractions of the client to relax and lengthen muscles and normalize joint range of motion. This technique is used by sports therapists, physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths.
When muscles are hypertonic/ stiff they will cause the joint to become tight and restricted. In these cases, MET can relax the muscle and release the joint while the patient generally feels a sense of relaxation. MET is therefore used in the following circumstances:
Muscle Energy Techniques can be used for anyone suffering with joint limitations or soft tissue related pain. Restricted movement can cause conditions like back pain, headache, scoliosis, sciatica, etc. Athletes or sedentary desk workers, children to elderly, chronic or acute pain.
Many athletes use MET as a preventative measure to guard against future muscle and joint injury. However, its mainly used by individuals who have a limited range of motion. Patients with any form of inflammation will also benefit as MET’s have circulatory functions and help to reduce Oedema.