The IM=X® Spinal Xercize program was designed to address and prevent general back pain. A specialized IM=X® program, Spinal Xercize goes beyond general fitness practices to correct spinal alignment, mobility, muscle recruitment patterns and strength. Our unique approach towards conditioning the Spine Stabilization System is at the heart of our back care solution. Regular sessions under the supervision of a Doctor of Chiropractic, Physical Therapist or Physical Medicine Physician are effective at:
-Decreasing pain and increasing ADL's
-Increasing function and overall spinal fitness level
-Developing muscle mass in the back, hip and abdominal area
-Developing postural awareness and control

BACK MUSCLE DEVELOPMENT Decreases in muscle mass and strength as well as decreases in bone mass and intervertebral disc height are a result of aging. After 30 years of age, muscles begin to atrophy. This coupled with prolonged periods of inactivity can result in chronic back pain. The good news is that IM=X® offsets these aging forces by conditioning the muscles of the Spine Stabilization System.

POSTURE Intervertebral compression is a result of poor posture and bad movement habits. IM=X® Spinal Xercize not only stabilizes and strengthens the spine but also teaches clients how to "feel" correct alignment. Clients reach a point of awareness where old postures "feel" uncomfortable and improved postures are fully natural. At this point, they can progress to more challenging exercises without risk of injury. As fitness levels improve, clients become confident in resuming an active lifestyle.

CREATING TECHNIQUE It is common that an individual with back discomfort learns an exercise only to repeat it at home with incorrect form. For example, many people perform abdominal curls incorrectly resulting in spinal compression. This compression often irritates soft tissues causing pain. Thus, the individual ceases activity to avoid further discomfort. This is commonly referred to as "The Cycle of Deconditioning and Pain." Our back care solution focuses on movement technique. Education is a component of recovery and provides back care clients with control and understanding.

The IM=X Spinal Xercize Certification is for the experienced 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 and how to work under the supervision of a Physical Therapist, Doctor of Chiropractic and/or Physician. 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. Lectures and exercise labs review posture analysis, gentle stretching/traction and back care research.

The following three aspects of training are emphasized:
Therapeutic Exercise -- Learn how to select the appropriate routines for clients with back discomfort. 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 for limb movement. Trunk muscle strength and endurance results from progressing the client through clearly defined skill levels.

Stretch and Manual Traction -- Gentle stretching based on the Alexander Technique is used to increase spinal length and postural awareness. 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 client's 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)
Gentle Stretching/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

NOTE: Prior to attending this course, students must read the following texts and take a pre-entrance exam.
1. Therapeutic Exercise for Lumbopelvic Stabilization: A Motor Control Approach for the Treatment and Prevention of Low Back Pain by Carolyn Richardson, Paul Hodges, and Julie Hides (Oct 9, 2004) and
2. Low Back Disorders: Evidence-based Prevention and Rehabilitation by Stuart McGill (Aug 30, 2007)
Length: 3 days (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
Required Equipment: Rings, Stretch Table and Xercizers
Prerequisites: IM=X® Basic Certification, IM=X® Advanced AND Super Advanced Certification
Written 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 rehabilitation." -- James Dillard, MD, DC, Author, The Chronic Pain Solution

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