Any athlete who is suffering from injury might as well heard or tried a particular massage therapy type that is designed to treat sports injury. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation is one of these special therapeutic massage types developed for the purpose of addressing any form of injuries, especially those that are sports related.

PNF or proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation is a therapeutic exercise originally formed for its rehabilitation purposes on sports injuries. However, due to its success and effectiveness in treating injuries as well as the recovery of the restricted mobility and flexibility of the affected area, it became a popular type of therapy now used by athletes. In addition to the enhancement in the mobility and flexibility, this type of therapy also promotes muscle strengthening as well as the improvement in the range of motion. PNF is not limited to athletes as it can also be used by ordinary people for the purpose of condition and strengthening the body to prevent injuries and restriction of motion and flexibility which is common as we age.

Like with all forms of bodywork techniques, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation involves risks and contraindications that should be considered by anyone who wishes to try this therapy. Due to the nature and approach of the therapy, the level of risks and contraindications to the treatment are much higher as compared to the other types of techniques. Therapists who wishes to acquire certification in this type of massage therapy requires intensive training in order to avoid inflicting more damage than good to the client.

The risks involve the damaging of the soft tissues of the human body when mishandled by the therapist during the therapy session. These tissues are delicate in nature and should be handled properly and with care as improper manipulation can cause injuries and further problems. Any wrong move of the therapist can also result to the damaging of the nervous system of the client. Improper stretching and positioning of the body during the therapy can trap a nerve which will result to other conditions.

Pregnancy is considered as one of the contraindication to the treatment due to the strenuous stretching and movement activities performed during the treatment of injuries. It is never allowed to be used on expectant mothers due to the fact that excessive stretching and movement is not safe as it will trigger miscarriage. Fractured and fragile bones are also known to be strictly prohibited for treatment in this type of therapy as stretching them will only cause more problems. Any disorder in the skeletal system of the client should be checked by a doctor or physician prior to undergoing treatment using proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation.

Conditioning the client’s body prior to the manipulation of the stretching and movement techniques is important to warm up and prepare the body for the exhausting activity. This will not only reduce the risks but will also help improve the benefits and effects of PNF.

As a common precautionary measure, a consultation with a professional in the field of medical care is the best thing anyone can do to avoid suffering from the consequences of any type of therapy.

Author Bio: I write for TIR Massage Stone, the leading hot stones for massage supplies provider. They carry products such as stone massage, as well as many other accessories for hot and cold stone therapy.

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