PNF/Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation

PNF is a form of resistance exercise used by a therapist to rehabilitate the body.  It was developed in the 1940's by Dr. Herman Kabat and expanded by Margaret Knott and Dorothy Voss, it is a combination of isometrics and passive stretching, when resistance is applied, as in the case of Hold-Relax, also called Contract-Relax, it should be the maximum amount of resistance that allows for pain-free movement.  However, if improperly used this can actually weaken muscles, decrease endurance, slow neuromuscular control and coordination, and decrease joint stability. PNF is to help the muscle contract, to increase motor control and learning and to help a client gain awareness of the motion and the direction of the motion and, of course, strengthen the body. PNF exercises can be applied to patients of all ages.