What is Muscle Energy Technique?
Muscle Energy Technique (or MET) is a massage therapy technique based on the principle of reciprocal inhibition. This theory explains that muscles on one side of a joint will always relax to accommodate the contraction of muscles on the other side of that joint.
A gentle, non-invasive method of manual therapy, MET is used to isolate the small structural and supportive muscles of your spine and limbs. This technique is performed as you are actively contracting (see the FAQ below).
The most common candidates for this technique are people with limited range of motion due to neck and back pain. Those suffering with scoliosis and sciatica may find this technique particularly useful.
Muscle Energy Technique may help with relieving pain, reducing edema, and improving mobility of affected joints. MET is often used as a preventative measure by athletes against potential injury.
Most practitioners agree that MET can be beneficial for nearly anyone.
Massage therapy rates
- 90 minutes $190
- 75 minutes $170
- 60 minutes $126
- 45 minutes $100
- 30 minutes $80
For further details on payment and coverage, please view our rates & payment and insurance & direct billing pages.
Staff bios
- Beverley Spidle, RMT
- Curtis Moon, RMT
- Jason Lescak, RMT
- Rahim Valli, RMT
- Sarah Pickard, RMT
- Ben Hildebrand, RMT
- Stephanie Funk, RAc
- Tatiana Shtytcer, RMT
- Janie Ringham, RMT
- Mitchell Budd, RMT
- Brendan McCarthy, RMT
- Joanne Guenther, DMO
- Dr. Man-Yee Yeung, ND
- Dr. Tonia Winchester, ND
- Elizabeth Arcand, RCRT
- Trishia Unrau, RCC
Do I have to choose a technique before scheduling an appointment?
Not at all. All you need to do is book an appointment with one of our Registered Massage Therapists. During your session, your RMT will create a tailored plan of various techniques designed around your specific needs.
This is my first massage – what can I expect?
Firstly, good for you! Here are some notes about getting started at Knead.
- Please fill out your intake form online prior to your appointment time (it will be emailed to you directly).
- You are welcome to wear relaxed clothing, or come as you are.
- Enter the clinic a few moments early to check in with reception.
- After you check in, your RMT will join you shortly to guide you to the treatment room.
- Your RMT will go over your intake form with you. You will both have time to ask questions and get a clear idea of what will be taking place during your session.
- You and your RMT will discuss what clothing may need to be removed, and how to get on the table.
- Each treatment includes an interview/assessment, hands-on treatment, and there may be a few minutes at the end of the session to go over some homecare exercises.
If you have any other questions about your first visit at Knead, please get in touch!
Is MET performed before, during, or after the application of oil?
Muscle Energy Technique can be done at anytime, but is usually done before oil is used. That said, each RMT may have different ideas after assessing you.
What does it mean when you say “actively” contract?
It means we are asking you to do a little work! In this case we will move your body (or joint space) into the position required, and then ask you to gently move back to your neutral position while we gently resist the return. It’s really fun!
Can I fill out an intake form before my first appointment?
For sure! It’s not mandatory to fill out the intake form out before your first appointment, but it will save some time. If you have any questions about any of the fields on the form, just leave the area blank and we will go over it in person.
“Since 2012 – and many, many life changes – Knead has been such a support.”
Neil
