Muscle Energy Techniques (METs) are a type of active, manual therapy that uses your body’s own muscle contractions — against therapist-applied resistance — to realign joints, stretch tight muscles, and restore proper movement.
METs are safe, gentle, and effective — commonly used in orthopedic physical therapy, sports rehab, and postural correction. At NuPhysical in Las Vegas, we apply these techniques to help you move more freely, reduce chronic tension, and correct underlying biomechanical dysfunctions.
How Do Muscle Energy Techniques Work?
Unlike passive stretching or traditional massage, METs involve you — the patient — actively engaging specific muscles while your therapist provides controlled resistance or guidance.
This process:
Activates proprioceptive feedback between your muscles and nervous system
Gently restores joint alignment and soft tissue balance
Helps release muscle spasms, tightness, or compensatory patterns
Improves neuromuscular control and range of motion
Most METs are painless and deeply relaxing — often resulting in an immediate feeling of improved flexibility and symmetry.
Benefits of Muscle Energy Techniques
Restores Joint Alignment & Mobility Ideal for SI joint dysfunction, pelvic tilts, or rotated vertebrae
Releases Muscle Tension & Spasms Balances overactive or inhibited muscle groups
Improves Flexibility & Range of Motion Especially effective for the hips, shoulders, neck, and spine
Corrects Postural Dysfunction & Imbalances Realigns joints and muscle tension to improve functional movement
Safe, Active, and Non-Forceful No aggressive thrusting or adjustments — just targeted movement therapy
Conditions Treated with METs
Muscle energy techniques are highly effective for:
Low back pain and sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction
Rotated pelvis or leg length discrepancies
Neck stiffness and cervicogenic headaches
Shoulder and scapular restrictions
Hip flexor or hamstring tightness
Piriformis syndrome and hip impingement
Muscle spasms and soft tissue adhesions
Tendonitis and muscle strain recovery
Chronic postural dysfunctions
What to Expect During a MET Session
Session Duration: 15–30 minutes Sensation: Mild muscle engagement, deep stretch, and often immediate relief
1️⃣ Initial Assessment
We’ll evaluate your posture, joint position, and movement quality to identify asymmetries and restrictions.
2️⃣ Active Contraction + Therapist Resistance
You’ll be positioned strategically, then asked to gently contract a specific muscle group while the therapist applies subtle counter-pressure.
3️⃣ Relaxation + Stretch
After contraction, the muscle relaxes and allows the joint or fascia to stretch further — safely increasing range of motion.
This process may be repeated across multiple joints and tissues to restore balance and function.
Is Muscle Energy Therapy Safe?
Yes — METs are low-risk, gentle, and highly controlled. They are particularly effective for patients who prefer a more active and interactive form of manual therapy.
Caution is used for:
Patients with acute fractures or instability
Severe osteoporosis
Certain neurological conditions
Late-stage pregnancy (depending on treatment area)
At NuPhysical, your safety is always our top priority. We conduct a full assessment before using METs.
Why Choose NuPhysical for Muscle Energy Techniques in Las Vegas?
Highly Trained Manual Therapy Specialists Our team includes therapists skilled in osteopathic and orthopedic techniques, trained to identify and treat hidden imbalances.
Integrated Rehab Approach We don’t stop at the muscle — METs are combined with myofascial release, exercise therapy, cupping, or dry needling for complete recovery.
Results-Based, Personalized Care Whether you’re realigning after a car accident, unwinding desk posture, or optimizing athletic function — we build plans around your goals.
Ready to unlock your body’s natural balance and mobility? Muscle Energy Techniques at NuPhysical may be the breakthrough your body needs.