Chapter 27 Muscle Energy Technique
OVERVIEW.
Muscle energy technique (MET) is a method that uses active isometric or isotonic contraction by the patient in a specific direction, and against a counterforce, in order to mobilize restricted joints, strengthen weak muscles, stretch tight muscles, and release hypertonicity. The technique has similar features to the contract-relax technique used in proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation.1
SUMMARY: CONTRAINDICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS.
Two sources cited a total of 12 concerns for MET. Most concerns were either procedural (e.g., overly aggressive, particularly in inexperienced practitioners) or related to musculoskeletal problems that are also a concern for joint manipulation therapy (e.g., tissue fragility, hypermobility). Myositis is contraindicated because MET involves resisted movements that may further aggravate an inflamed condition. Note: If MET is viewed as a form of manipulation, other manipulative concerns may also apply (see Joint manipulation).2
CONTRAINDICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
E00-E90 ENDOCRINE, NUTRITIONAL, AND METABOLIC DISEASES
M00-M99 DISEASES OF THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM AND CONNECTIVE TISSUE
1 Chaitow L, Liebenson C, Murphy DR. Muscle energy techniques. Edinburgh, Scotland: Churchill Livingstone, 2001.
2 Tan JC. Practical manual of physical medicine and rehabilitation: diagnostics, therapeutics, and basic problems. St. Louis: Mosby, 1998.
3 Medical malpractice verdicts, settlements and experts, June 2002, p 50, loc 3.
