Muscle Energy Techniques

BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to: 

1.        Identify the pioneers of muscle energy techniques and explain the differences in their philosophies.

2.        Explain the difference between postisometric relaxation and reciprocal inhibition.

3.        Explain the role of fascia to soft tissue dysfunction.

4.        Describe 10 stress factors leading to musculoskeletal dysfunction

5.        Define and list examples of postural and phasic muscles and their characteristics

6.        Explain the difference between fibromyalgia and trigger points

7.        List 5 characteristics of trigger points

8.        Describe different examples of joint restrictions and barriers

9.        Describe basic exercises using muscle energy techniques using postisometric relaxation in both acute and chronic contexts

10.     Explain how reciprocal inhibition coincides with muscle energy techniques

11.     Describe the contraindications and side-effects of muscle energy techniques

12.     List common patient and practitioner errors when performing muscle energy techniques

13.     Explain the importance of correct counterforce when performing muscle energy techniques

14.     Demonstrate assessment of specific muscle tightness in the upper and lower extremities, cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine

15.     Describe inhibited muscle chains and techniques to treat the muscles involved.

16.     Describe the role of muscle energy techniques when treating joints and describe the differences between treating muscles and joints

17.     Demonstrate assessment of joint restriction in the upper and lower extremities, cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine

18.     Identify different normal and abnormal joint end-feels