Muscle Energy Technique is used in osteopathic medicine, osteopathy and physical therapy to treat somatic dysfunction presenting as loss of range of motion secondary to muscular inhibition. There are several distinct techniques, which may be called muscle energy techniques including reciprocal inhibition, and post-isometric relaxation.

Muscle Energy is an Active (requires patient utilization of force) Direct (engages the barrier) technique that promotes muscle relaxation by activating the golgi tendon reflex. It has also been proposed that temporary muscle fatigue blocks reflex-contraction thus allowing for an increase of range of motion to beyond the barrier.

Purpose is to gain motion that is limited by restrictions of neuromuscular structures.