Healing Touch: The Role of DermoNeuroModulation (DNM) in Physical Therapy
DermoNeuroModulation(DNM) is a therapeutic technique that is used by some physical therapists to address pain and discomfort in their clients. Here’s a simple explanation of DNM and why it’s used:
Dermo: This part refers to the skin, which is the body’s largest sensory organ. It contains many receptors that send signals to the brain about touch, pressure, temperature, and pain.
Neuro: This part refers to the nervous system, including the nerves that transmit messages between the body and the brain.
Modulation: This means adjusting or influencing something. In DNM, it refers to modifying the way the nervous system processes sensory information.
DNM involves gentle touch or pressure applied to the skin in specific areas of the body. The therapist uses their hands to interact with the client’s skin in a way that aims to calm the nervous system and reduce pain signals.
Why Physical Therapists may use DNM:
Pain Relief: DNM can help reduce pain by altering how the nervous system perceives pain signals. It’s particularly useful for chronic pain conditions.
Improved Mobility: By calming the nervous system and reducing pain, DNM can enhance a client’s ability to move and perform exercises during physical therapy sessions.
Reducing Muscle Tension: DNM can help relax tense muscles and decrease muscle spasms, making it easier for clients to engage in therapeutic exercises.
Complementary Technique: DNM can be used alongside other physical therapy techniques to provide a holistic approach to pain management and rehabilitation.
Individuals who may benefit from this form of therapy would be:
Chronic Pain Clients: DNM can be beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic low back pain, and complex regional pain syndrome. It aims to modulate the nervous system’s response to pain and improve overall pain management.
Orthopedic Clients: People recovering from orthopedic surgeries, such as joint replacements or ligament repairs, may benefit from DNM as part of their rehabilitation process. It can help improve tissue healing, reduce scar tissue formation, and enhance mobility.
Neurological Conditions: People with neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) or stroke survivors may find DNM beneficial. It can assist in managing muscle spasms, improving muscle control, and enhancing sensory perception.
Headaches and Migraine Sufferers: DNM may be used to address tension-related headache and migraines by targeting muscular and nervous system dysfunction that contributes to these conditions.
We particularly recommend trialing DNM therapy as part of your treatment plan if your painful body part is extremely sensitive to touch and has been present for some time. If you have chronic pain and have tried other forms of treatment with limited success, DNM would certainly be something to try, keeping in mind it is not a quick fix. DNM requires patience, perseverance, and commitment. It is essential to approach this type of therapy with an open mind and be willing to embrace chance, both mentally and physically. Results can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their condition, but many participants report improvements in their quality of life from DNM.
It is important to note that DNM is a specialized approach and should be administered by a trained healthcare professional, such as a Registered Physiotherapist, who has knowledge in this technique. Speak to one of our physical therapists to learn more.