Muscle Energy Techniques (MET)

Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) are a group of manual therapy approaches in which the client actively participates by contracting specific muscles against resistance provided by the therapist, with the goal of lengthening shortened muscles, reducing pain, normalizing joint motion, and improving overall musculoskeletal function. These techniques are widely used by massage therapists, physiotherapists, and other manual therapy practitioners.

Key Features

  • MET is an active technique involving voluntary isometric or isotonic muscle contractions by the client against a precisely controlled counterforce from the therapist and often in a specific position/direction.

  • The method utilizes neurophysiological principles like reciprocal inhibition (where contracting one muscle group leads to relaxation of its antagonist) and post-isometric relaxation (muscle relaxation after contraction).

  • A typical MET involves positioning the body, asking the client to gently contract a muscle for a few seconds, then relaxing, and the therapist taking up slack to stretch the muscle further—this may be repeated several times per session.

Purposes and Benefits

  • MET addresses somatic dysfunction such as decreased joint range of motion, muscle hypertonicity, spasm, and pain.

  • It can help resolve muscle imbalances, restore proper posture, relieve pain, and is appropriate across a wide range of musculoskeletal problems including back/neck pain, sports injuries, sciatica, and chronic stiffness.

  • This gentle, non-invasive therapy is well-tolerated, minimizes discomfort, and empowers the client’s active role in recovery.

Typical Use in Massage Sessions

  • Therapists use MET to treat limited range of motion, muscle tightness, postural problems, and joint restrictions.

  • MET can be effective for spinal, pelvic, and limb dysfunction, and commonly features in individualized rehabilitation and sports massage plans.

  • The technique is contraindicated in acute injuries, fractures, severe osteoporosis, or when clients are unable to actively participate.

In summary, Muscle Energy Techniques are direct, active manual therapy methods—using client-driven muscle contractions against therapist resistance—to lengthen muscles, free up joints, relieve pain, and restore healthy movement patterns in massage practice.