PNFstretching
PNF stretching stands for proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation. It is a family of stretching techniques that apply neuromuscular principles to improve flexibility and range of motion. It typically involves voluntary muscle contractions of the target muscle followed by a passive stretch.
Common methods include hold-relax (HR), contract-relax (CR), HR-AC, and CRAC. In HR, the target muscle is isometrically
Typically performed with a trained partner or therapist, the technique begins with positioning the limb at
Mechanisms involve autogenic inhibition and reciprocal inhibition. PNF is thought to enhance range of motion through
Evidence is mixed; some studies show greater acute ROM gains with PNF than static stretching and it
Safety considerations include performing PNF with appropriate supervision to reduce risk of strains or joint harm.
Originating with Herman Kabat in the mid-20th century, PNF stretching has become a standard component of physical