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What is Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)?
PNF is a form of stretching designed to increase flexibility of muscles and increase range of movement. PNF is a progressive stretch involving muscle contraction and relaxation. Your physiotherapist will gently stretch the muscle and you will resist the stretch by contracting the muscle for about 5 seconds. Your physiotherapist will indicate the force of contraction required and this depends on the condition of the muscle. You then relax the muscle and your physiotherapist will gently stretch the muscle further for about 30 seconds. There is then about 30 seconds rest and the process is repeated again several times.
Above: PNF is an effective technique to imporve muscle length and prevent increased tensionHow does PNF help?
The progressive stretching and change between contraction and relaxation allows the muscle to adapt to its new position each time it is held in position. This allows it to stretch further the next time. If this is done on a regular basis, gains can be made in flexibility and range of movement.
Who benefits from PNF?
PNF can be of benefit to individuals recovering from muscle damage as part of treatment. It can also help healthy individuals to increase flexibility and range of movement. This can be beneficial for sporting activities to improve the body’s ability to perform.
Above: Physiotherapist facilitating a passive stretch of the armTo arrange an assessment with Physio.co.uk or for more information on the PNF concept, please contact us on 0330 088 7800 and we will endeavour to help you. Alternatively, please arrange an appointment online through our online booking system.
