What is Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)?

What is DNS?

A new method of intrinsic joint stabilization. It is a new manual rehabilitative approach to activate the “integrated stabilizing system” and achieve exciting levels of improved function. Joint stabilization or the “stabilizing system” means having all the correct muscles being used around joints, primarily the core, hips and shoulders.

How does DNS work?

DNS principles on based on developmental kinesiology, which is how a new-born moves and learns in the first year of life. Throughout life we adopt muscle activation patterns that lead to repetitive stress and overuse injuries. Utilizing DNS principles and exercises hits “control-alt-delete” on the brain to return the body to these developmental positions and muscular activation patterns. When these patterns are learned and established with treatment, the phasic stabilization muscles will automatically activate prior to purposeful movement to establish a stable base. DNS presents a critical set of functional tests that analyze the quality of functional stability and assist the clinician in finding a “key link” of dysfunction.

What is the ultimate goal of DNS treatment?

The ultimate strategy is to teach the brain to maintain central control and stability of the movement restored during the therapy. This is achieved by activation/stimulation of the stabilizers when placing the patient in the primal developmental positions. Eventually, through the repetition of the exercises, the central control establishes an automatic model that becomes a fundamental part of everyday movement.

When can DNS be used and who can benefit from DNS therapy?

DNS is equally applicable for the geriatric patient, pediatric patient, elite athlete, acute intervertebral disc patient and chronic neurological disorder patient, among others. Once the DNS principles are understood and methods learned, clinicians can apply them to anyone and everyone, making it a significant expansion from previous standards of rehabilitation.

Dr. Forrest Allen is a sports chiropractor and co-owner at Allen Spine and Sport. He has a passion for integrating spinal and extremity joint manipulation, manual therapies like dry needling, fascial manipulation, etc., and rehabilitative exercises founded in Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS). Visit our website and give our office a call!