How should MET be taught to a patient?

• A. Demonstrate the contraction against resistance, have the patient perform it, and provide feedback on alignment and effort
• B. Instruct patient to relax with no contraction
• C. Move the patient passively
• D. Instruct patient to hold their breath during contraction

Answer: (A)

MET relies on the patient actively using a muscle against a gentle counterforce, then allowing a quick relaxation so the clinician can lengthen the tissue to a new, improved length. To teach it, you demonstrate the exact contraction against resistance, have the patient perform that contraction themselves, and provide immediate feedback on whether the movement stays aligned and whether the effort is appropriate. After the brief contraction, guide the patient through relaxation and a subsequent stretch to advance tissue length. This active, controlled engagement is what makes MET work. Instructing relaxation with no contraction, moving the patient passively, or telling the patient to hold their breath during contraction misses or conflicts with the essential active component and safety considerations.