Course Description:

DNS (Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization). When the goal is to provide optimal rehabilitation, fitness or performance training for your client, it is not enough to just stretch and strengthen a muscle, mobilize a joint or soft tissue and show your clients a few exercises. To achieve lasting outcomes, it is important to determine the root cause of the problem. It is about the QUALITY of movement and FUNCTIONAL INTEGRATION throughout the entire movement system.
DNS is a unique rehabilitation, fitness and performance enhancement strategy based on the principles of developmental kinesiology and the neurophysiological and biomechanical aspects of the maturing postural-locomotor system. When we understand motor development, we can use the global patterns and key milestones that occur during the developmental process to assess, restore and train ideal stabilization and movement patterns in our clients.
DNS defines breathing and stabilization patterns, joint function, posture, and movement from a neurodevelopmental perspective. Global stabilization and motor patterns responsible for our locomotor development continue to drive our movement in adulthood. Recognizing when these patterns are altered or faulty and “treating” compensatory motor patterns is essential for achieving optimal outcomes.
DNS Exercise 1 is an introductory/beginning level course designed to introduce you to the DNS concept and principles. Emphasis is placed on assessment and treatment strategies utilizing key developmental positions and active exercises. Focus during this first course, in the 3-part Exercise series, is on sagittal stabilization, a.k.a trunk stabilization, which develops in the first 3-4 months of life and is a pre-requisite to all purposeful movement of the extremities. Because of this, ideal movement is dependent upon ideal stabilization. Understanding the respiratory and postural function of the diaphragm and its key role in creating intra-abdominal pressure and trunk stabilization is necessary for effective assessment and training of both stabilization and movement.
During DNS Exercise 1, the following developmental positions will be utilized: 3 month supine (triple flexion), 3 month prone, quadruped, long sit, low keeling and squat. Strategies to help improve the quality of stabilization and movement will be discussed as well as hands on cueing for improving facilitation and co-activation. We will also discuss implementing the concepts of this course in common exercises you are already using with your clients.

Pre-requisites: there are no pre-requisites required to attend this course. The course is designed for healthcare practitioners (PTs, DCs, ATCs, DOs) and movement professionals (personal trainers, yoga or pilates practitioners, coaches, etc)