PNF- Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation

PNF- Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation

1. Can be passive or active

   • Usually involves a partner

2. Steps of PNF:

   • Stretch the target muscle to its full range of movement. Hold this stretched position for a few seconds.
     • The muscle group then should be contracted isometrically and then the muscle should be relaxed.
       • The target muscle should then be stretched again but the range of the stretch should be increased.
       • Isometric Contraction: The joint angle and muscle length do not change during the contraction.
         • Isometric muscle contractions completed immediately before a passive stretch help to achieve autogenic inhibition where muscles gradually relax.

3. Problems with this...

   • Painful
   • Tear muscle/tendon tissue
   • Paired work- meaning you must have an understanding of your partners limitations to prevent injuries.