Review of Physical Therapy Alternatives for Reducing Muscle Contracture

Passive stretching is a technique frequently used to treat muscle contractures; however, because it can activate the stretch reflex and has little carry-over, it may not be as effective as other modes. Four approaches to treating muscle contracture are described: 1) activation or strengthening of the weak oppnent, 2) local inhibiton of the contractdd muscle, 3) general inhibition of hypertonus, and 4) passive lengthening. Specific examples of techniques, their rationales, and suggestions for use of each are discussed.