IM=X® SPINAL XERCIZE
An estimated 80 percent of Americans suffer from back pain. Exercise is one of the most effective tools for recovery. Learn how to design effective spinal fitness programs for post-rehabilitation and injury prevention. Lectures and exercise labs review posture analysis, manual traction, back care research, and demonstrate the effectiveness of IM=X Pilates at remediating general low back pain.

This course is for the IM=X Pilates Certified instructor who is interested in developing the professional skills and knowledge to work with back pain patients who are seeking long-term solutions. You will learn how to analyze and improve the health of the Spine Stabilization System. By analyzing movement process, posture, flexibility and stabilization you will learn how to give corrective exercise programs. Learn hands-on skills for altering posture, lengthening the spine and improving trunk muscle strength and recruitment.

The following three aspects of training are emphasized:
Therapeutic Exercise -- Learn how to select the appropriate floor and Xercizer programs for clients with back problems. The emphasis is always on conditioning the Spine Stabilization System with the Ring and the Xercizer. The exercises focus on muscular balance and core muscle recruitment patterning during limb movement. Trunk muscle strength and endurance results from progressing the client through clearly defined skill levels. Home programs are given to help the client continue corrective muscle strengthening.

Stretch and Manual Traction -- Gentle manual traction based on the Alexander Technique is used to increase spinal length without stimulating the stretch reflex. Stretch protocols increase mobility, joint play and decrease hyper-tonicity in the hip and spinal musculature.

Neuromuscular Re-Education -- Learn verbal and tactile cues based on the Alexander Technique for increasing sensory awareness and improving spinal mechanics. Postural imagery re-educates the postural control system and improves daily movement patterns.

Course Schedule
Day 1 (9:00-5:00)
Background and Overview
Trunk Muscle Origin and Function
Research Abstracts
Standing Posture (practice on all classmates)
Manual Traction and Muscle Setting (practice on all classmates)

Day 2 (9:00-5:00)
Review Sample Workouts
Review History, Medical Release and Medical Referral Forms
Session Record: SOAP notes
Exercise Testing Procedures

Day 3 (9:00-5:00)
Review of Standing Posture
Review Written Exam and Case Studies
Review of Theory and Supporting Research
Course Evaluation and Closing Questions

Length: 3 days (9:00-5:30)
Cost: $1100 or Free for Workstudy Students
Prerequisite: Required readings and successful completion of the Basic, Advanced and Super Advanced Certifications. Written and Practical Exam Required

"These moves are designed not only to tone and elongate your muscles, but also to improve your posture and help your back. So try them and start reaping the benefits" --Fit Magazine

"IM=X is the perfect adjunct to chiropractic care...a comprehensive, safe and superior approach to back exercise rehabiltation." -- James Dillard, MD, DC, Author, The Chronic Pain Solution Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center Chairman of the Chiropractic Advisory

"Practicing chiropractic for 10 year had exposed me to many techiques for restoring balance to the musculo-skeletal system. None has impressed me as much as IM=X." -- Daniel Claps, DC