This describes the basic principles of PNF stretches.
PNF stands for Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation.
The principles are:
1. Massage the muscle first
2. Stretch the muscle as far as it goes comfortably.
3. Have the client press against your resistance
– as strong as is comfortable
– as long as is comfortable
4. Do passive contraction of the muscle to allow it to release
5. Restretch and hold 6 – 10 seconds.
Never stretch a muscle that is recently strained! A stretch can tear the muscle further.