PNF Techniques — Stability & Skill

What are alternating isometrics used for?

Stability

• Alternating isometric contractions

• Opposing muscle groups

• No rest between contractions

• Improves:

  • Strength

  • Endurance

What is rhythmic stabilization used for?

Stability + mobility

• Coordinated isometric cocontractions

• Muscles surrounding joint contract against progressive resistance

• Improves:

  • Stability

  • ROM/control

What is slow reversal?

• Slow resisted concentric contractions

• Alternates agonists ↔ antagonists

• No rest

• Improves:

  • Stability

  • Controlled mobility

  • Skill

  • Movement/postural control

What is slow reversal hold?

• Slow reversal +

• Isometric hold at end of each movement

• Adds greater stability

What is agonistic reversal?

• Resisted concentric contraction

• Followed by eccentric contraction of SAME muscle group

• Improves:

  • Controlled mobility

  • Skill

What is normal timing?

• Improves coordination

• Movement normally progresses distal → proximal

• Restrict proximal components

• Allow distal component to initiate

• Progress toward coordinated whole pattern

What is resisted progression?

• Used primarily during gait

• Resistance applied to:

  • Pelvis

  • Hips

  • Extremity

• Improves:

  • Coordination

  • Strength

  • Endurance

What is timing for emphasis?

• Strengthens weak component of motor pattern

• Strong components are resisted

• Produces overflow to weaker muscles