Muscle Energy Technique Defined

Muscle Energy Technique (MET) is a manual manipulative procedure that is utilized to normalize muscle and joint function.  All joints are assessed by testing.  The restricted joint is taken to the barrier in three planes, for example: flexion, rotation & sidebend.

The patient is instructed to actively use muscular effort:

  1. From a controlled position
  2. In a specific direction
  3. Against a distinct counter-force.

This creates an isometric contraction in the tight tissues contributing  to restriction. Reciprocal inhibition is also used in specific cases to reduce tonus.

The net effect is reduced muscle hypertonicity and a re-alignment of bony structures.