Integrated Neuromuscular Re-Education: Muscle Energy Therapy and Positional Release – Theresa A. Schmidt

Silence the Pain! Restore Mobility and Strength!

Integrated Neuromuscular Re-Education is an introductory hands-on approach to correction of somatic dysfunction using muscle energy/PNF and counterstrain/positional release.

The goals of INMR are to restore normal soft tissue tone and elasticity, relieve pain, improve strength and optimize performance. Identification and treatment of abnormal neuromuscular tension, painful trigger points, motion restriction and strength deficit is the focus of this recording. INMR approach is a synthesis of active and passive approaches to facilitate positive changes in the structure and function of the myofascial and neuromuscular systems.

Techniques may be immediately applied in a variety of clinical situations. A review of the current evidence-based literature will illustrate the efficacy of these interventions. This recording includes lecture, discussion and emphasis on hands-on lab practice. A must-take course for manual therapists!

1. Investigate the theoretical basis and evidence-based research for positional release/counterstrain (PRT) and muscle energy therapy (MET/PNF)
2. Evaluate basic neuromuscular reflexes, the function of the muscle spindle, Golgi tendon organs and proprioceptors and their effect on muscle tone and function
3. Assess the musculoskeletal system using palpation to identify indicator trigger points (TPs)
4. Utilize positions that reduce the pain and sensitivity of TPs to allow spontaneous release of abnormal neuromuscular tone
5. Apply principles of MET/PNF to position a joint to effectively stretch a muscular restriction or strengthen an inhibited muscle (to correct a somatic dysfunction)
6. Implement a treatment program using positional release and muscle energy therapy to improve range of motion, flexibility, strength, and to reduce spasm and pain for a variety of clinical conditions

NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL BASIS OF MUSCLE TONE, TENSION AND SPASM

• Muscle spindle
• GTO reflexes
• Normal/abnormal tension patterns

JONES’ THEORY OF STRAIN/COUNTERSTRAIN AND POSITIONAL RELEASE

• Definition
• Rules

SCANNING ASSESSMENT FOR TENDER TRIGGER POINTS

• Palpable nodules, taut bands, referred pain
• Diagnostic indicators of biomechanical dysfunction

POSITIONAL RELEASE TECHNIQUE DEMONSTRATION AND LAB

• Position of comfort, pain scale and palpation
• Indications/contraindications
• Outcomes

THEORETICAL BASIS OF MUSCLE ENERGY THERAPY/PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION

• Definition
• Principles
• Applications

MUSCLE ENERGY THERAPY FOR THE EXTREMITIES: DEMONSTRATION AND LAB

• Extremities demonstration
• Correction of somatic dysfunction

MUSCLE ENERGY THERAPY FOR THE SPINE AND PELVIS: DEMONSTRATION AND LAB

• Contraction types, multi-angle stretches
• Facilitation techniques
• Spine and pelvis demonstration

INTEGRATION OF TECHNIQUES INTO A TREATMENT PROGRAM

• Clinical problem solving with discussion