PNF techniques involve specific patterns of movement and can be integrated into physical therapy sessions. Nurses and physical therapists often use the following methods:
Hold-Relax: This involves an isometric contraction of the target muscle, followed by a passive stretch. Contract-Relax: The patient contracts the muscle to be stretched against resistance, followed by relaxation and passive stretching. Hold-Relax with Agonist Contraction: This combines isometric contraction and active movement from the opposing muscle group.