DNM (DermoNeuroModulating) is added using 'hand's-on' techniques, a method to actively reduce chronic & persistent pain. This is my response to the questions about how & why these Thermal Therapy techniques are being taught with DNM (DermoNeruoModulating / Pain Science). The answer is this: the heated pillows become yet another way to utilize heat and stretching to access the mechanoreceptors. Yes, there are many other heated techniques, but the diverse applications (shearing, fluffing, nerve stimulation, stretching/holding, slow, rhythmic specific application of working totally through the heated conforming pillows) help the therapist enter a new level of therapy. Specific stretches are applied in a shearing (and other specific directional) manner, and adding a holding due to the heat 'grabbing / tugging on' the various layers of tissue, skin to deeper while always staying on the ‘feel-good’ side of pain. The compressions are structured to achieve access to specific areas, tissue direction and depth. The tissues being affected (strained or relaxed) can be felt thru the heated pillows, at the same time the therapist is using leaning, relaxed weight behind placement of pillow, saving therapist from straining while using side of arm, seated options, heel of hand, and never thumbs. In addition, DNM methods taught can accompany and be partnered with the techniques. The beauty of using this method over clothed clients/ patients, adds to the versatility. It can be used for all ages, diverse venues and is extremely effective for chronic/persistent pain. Because affected areas are gently stretched, the specific application and movements increase ROM, and decrease client resistance and guarding. Self-Care approaches are taught for both the therapist to treat their own pain or over-use patterns and then to teach their clients. Jason Erickson has been involved with Pain Science and teaching DNM for several years and has been a popular and respected voice for changing our techniques and viewpoints about treating our patients. This class is focused on the nervous system and methods of how to seek what feels distinctively good using gentle, thermal approaches (Karen) with follow up of more specific skin stretches (Jason), always considering the nervous system. It is a very different approach than ‘chasing the pain’. I invite all to ask others who have experience a demo, session or class to chime in and add your perspective! I took Diane Jacobs DNM 5-day class in 2016, and have found this thermal therapy to readily support her teachings! I am delighted to pass these techniques on to others who will expand their application as they apply in their therapy specialty area or teach others! It feels like a gift that Diane came into my life at this particular time as I prepare to retire and pass on all literature to those who are preparing to become instructors. This last class where I will be directly involved, is a way for me to release what I have learned and let it become so much more in others hands. Jason is continuing the teaching and is one who will be carry it onward with the help of others who will be teaching in the future.
