Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

Which osteopathic technique utilizes a direct method?

1. Muscle energy

2. Counterstrain

3. Fascial release

4. Still technique

The correct answer is: Muscle energy

Muscle energy is the correct choice because it is a direct technique that involves the patient actively engaging their muscles against a resistance applied by the practitioner. This method requires the patient to use their muscle strength in a controlled manner, which allows for the adjustment of the musculoskeletal system in a precise manner. In this technique, the practitioner positions the patient in such a way that the muscle being treated is put on a stretch. The patient then contracts the muscle against the practitioner's resistance for a few seconds. Following the contraction, the practitioner takes up the slack in the muscle to help increase the range of motion. This direct engagement with the muscle aims to restore normal function and alleviate somatic dysfunction. Other techniques mentioned, such as counterstrain, fascial release, and Still technique, utilize more indirect approaches. Counterstrain involves placing the body in a position of comfort to allow the muscle to relax, thereby facilitating correction. Fascial release emphasizes gentle manipulation of the connective tissue without applying direct muscle tension. Still technique combines both direct and indirect methods but is characterized by a more dynamic approach, refining its technique to address the area through a combination of motions. Therefore, muscle energy specifically qualifies as a direct method due to its active involvement of both the patient and practitioner in