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model that begins with myofascia l released, then deep tissue work, and then finally, motion-assisted massage allows us to ma ximize effectiveness and comfort," says Kelie Davis, DMR Method physical therapist. + Progressive Traction, traction applied to the neck and back to reduce pressure on the intervertebral discs and improve spinal mobility and alignment. Using high-tech traction heads programmed to apply traction in three pha ses, including static, intermittent a nd oscillating modes, complements other DMR Method techniques to provide patients with rapid and optimal results. THE POWER OF PATIENT EDUCATION In 2015, to help patients better under- stand, treat and recover from complicated spinal issues, DMR Method clinicians published a comprehensive, practica l g uidebook, tit led T he DM R Method: Advanced Nonsurgical Care for Neck and Back Pain. "This book is specifically designed to educate patients about spine mechan- ics, spine conditions and the treatment process," L'A llier says. "The book also provides self-care resources for patients to utilize once they've completed their DMR therapy." RELIEF TO WELLNESS "Our goal is to help patients effectively treat their back condition and transition to doing things on their own to enhance their persona l hea lth a nd wellness," L'Allier says. To help achieve this goa l, the DMR Met hod t ea m w rot e a not her b o ok , Wellness for Everyone, that they give patients as a gift upon their graduation from care. "The short book is a concise, practical guide that helps patients discover simple things they can do to stay healthy on their own. By making sma ll but intentiona l changes, patients will see a huge differ- ence in their health and wellness, and, thus, their quality of life." To learn more about the DMR Method, find a location, or make an appointment or referral, visit dmrmethod.com. n " I had been to other places, and no one could figure out what was wrong with my back, and I was suffering. In one visit, the DMR physician figured out the cause of my pain and implemented a combination of treatments that quickly improved my back and leg pain. The therapists gave me some simple exercises to do on my own, and I haven't had any problems since." — PATIENT TESTIMONIAL Passing the Torch: DMR University Clinicians well versed in the Diagnose, Manage, and Rehabilitate (DMR) Method are collaborating with other providers to enhance the level of available neuromuskuloskeletal therapy. In August 2016, DMR Clinics launched the first-ever collaborative care conference: DMR University (DMRU), a 20-hour training program consisting of a certification curriculum and corresponding practicum to instruct physical therapists, chiropractors and allied health professionals how to perform the DMR Method. The program also emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to spine care and rehabilitation. The inaugural session began with a panel of 15 experts from across the country, including radiologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists and chiropractors, and followed with hands-on training of DMR Method techniques, including Integrative Progressive Manipulation and Dynamic Muscle Technique and Progressive Traction. "To help quantify spinal dysfunction as well as help measure outcomes, the DMR Method research team is also developing a new diagnostic tool called proprioceptometry. If successful, it will offer doctors and therapists new insights into how spinal injuries and dysfunction affect the part of the nervous system responsible for giving the body its sense of position. PROVIDED BY HOPKINS HEALTH PHOTO © DAVID GINSBERG 0 8