Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation

PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) stretching is an occupational therapy and physical therapy procedure designed in the 1940s and 1950s to rehabilitate patients with paralysis.^[1] It is often a combination of passive stretching and isometrics contractions. In the 1980s, components of PNF began to be used by sport therapists on healthy athletes. The most common PNF leg or arm positions encourage flexibility and coordination throughout the limb's entire range of motion. PNF is used to supplement daily stretching and is employed to make quick gains in range of motion to help athletes improve performance. Good range of motion makes better biomechanics, reduces fatigue and helps prevent overuse injuries. PNF is practiced by chiropractors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, massage therapists, athletic trainers and others.^[1]