Facilitated Stretching

When Facilitated Stretching was published in 1993, it was the first book to translate the complexities of PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) stretching into an easy, step-by-step method. Now fully updated and expanded, Facilitated Stretching (Second Edition) is an even better resource that makes PNF stretching accessible to everyone.

PNF stretching consists of three simple steps: stretch the muscle, contract it isometrically against resistance, then stretch it again. Simple, yet highly effective. These steps apply whether you’re isolating one muscle at a time, or using the spiral diagonal patterns of PNF to stretch groups of muscles simultaneously.

This new edition features the latest PNF stretching techniques to help improve range of motion and enhance performance, reduce overuse injuries that result from muscle fatigue, and enable easy assessment of current muscle function. And you’ll find expanded information on effective self-stretching techniques.

Take a look at what’s new in Facilitated Stretching:

• A broader scope of stretches featuring 10 additional muscle groups, including the cervical region
• The latest research findings including a new appendix devoted to scientific inquiries into PNF techniques
• An expanded chapter explaining the role of PNF techniques during injury rehabilitation
• An expanded discussion of biomechanics and stabilization that will help you achieve optimum flexibility and coordination
• An appendix that explores using facilitated stretching along with soft tissue therapy for reducing pain and restoring range of motion lost due to injury

The book shows how to perform 66 facilitated stretches covering all the major muscles and muscle groups and features easy-to-follow instructions accompanied by 122 photos and illustrations.

Facilitated Stretching is a cutting-edge tool that uses the science behind PNF stretching to develop a simple method to improve flexibility and range of motion.

Table of Contents

Part I. Understanding PNF Stretching
Chapter 1. Historical Development of PNF
Chapter 2. Stretching Basics
Chapter 3. Spiral-Diagonal Patterns

Part II. The Stretches
Chapter 4. Stretches for the Lower Extremity
Chapter 5. Stretches for the Upper Extremity
Chapter 6. Stretches for the Torso and Neck
Chapter 7. PNF in Physical Therapy

About the Author

Robert McAtee, BA, LMT, CSCS, has been a sport massage therapist since 1981, specializing in sport and orthopedic massage therapy. McAtee teaches facilitated stretching and sport massage seminars throughout the U.S. and internationally to massage therapists, athletic trainers, personal trainers, chiropractors, 0lympic-caliber athletes and coaches, and amateur athletes.

Jeff Charland, PT, ATC, CSCS, GDMT, is a 1983 graduate of the University of Wisconsin at Madison Physical Therapy Program, where he also competed as a varsity athlete on a wrestling scholarship. Since 1987, Charland has lectured in the areas of sports medicine, rehabilitation, and assessment/treatment of neural tissue disorders. He is team trainer and travels internationally with the U.S. Judo and U.S. Wrestling Federations’ National and Olympic teams. Charland completed the graduate program in Manipulative Therapy at Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia, under the direction of Bob Elvey, a world-renowned physiotherapist. He is a certified athletic trainer through the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) and a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA. In 1997, he earned a certification in Active Release Techniques. He also has served as director of a sports physical therapy clinic in Colorado Springs, Colorado.