What Is Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)?

PNF is a more intense type of MET. Instead of returning to neutral before stretching, each proceeding contraction is done at the new end ROM. This is only for patients who have low levels of pain and should not be repeated more than 3 times. PNF can increase flexibility (active and passive) and strength much faster than regular METs.

When muscles are contracted while being elongated, the golgi tendon organs (GTOs) adapt to the new threshold and allow an increase in force and length. When a GTO is active, it causes autogenic inhibition of the muscle which allows it to stretch.

If an agonist contraction is done, it is imperative to allow the muscle to fully relax (to stop the action potential from firing completely) to go into a deep stretch while avoiding spasm.