Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques (Repost)

Volume 1 has three-DVD series where Dalton cleverly combines state-of-the-art computer visualization technology with comprehensive, yet basic, step-by-step instructions to clearly demonstrate how pain develops from common, predictable muscle imbalance that put the bony framework out of alignment.

DVD 1: Introduces the assess and stretch routines where therapist performs a five-minute structural assessment, including muscle firing order and fourth layer hypertonicity tests. The accompanying manual contains assessment sheets that can be copied and completed for each client’s records. (55m:26s)

DVD 2: in the Freedom from Pain series presets low back alignment techniques for pain prevention. Specific deep tissue, assisted stretching, facet and Golgi tendon techniques allow the therapist to manually release dysfunctional strain patterns before they become pain patterns. (01h:42m:03s)

DVD 3: Investigates muscle and skeletal imbalances of the cervical complex. The 25 neck routines reveal new and exiting tendon, ligament, joint capsule and thoracic rib techniques that will amaze you clients and fellow manual therapists. These techniques cover such conditions as forward head posture, dowager’s hump and other common disorders. (01h:20m)


Volume 2 is a two-disk set that takes the viewer into “Advanced Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques” (MAT) involving the neck, upper back and chest.

DVD 1: Dr. Dalton reviews his” dirty dozen” techniques, which are 12 advanced methods for the correction of the Upper Cross Syndrome. (01h:27m:07s)

DVD 2: reviews the treatment of more chronic and difficult cases seen involving the head, neck and upper extremity. You will learn fascial release techniques for the diaphragm, thoracic outlet region, and other areas of compensation. Later on, he reviews treatment to the base of the skull and release techniques for the sub-occipital muscles in cases of whiplash, headache and neck pain. (01h:09m:38s)

Evaluation techniques are also demonstrated for altered biomechanics and release methods for the anterior and posterior cervical musculature. A great concept is utilized here: Myotherapy procedures are delivered on a glass surface under the patient, allowing the viewer to see the hand action of the practitioner. I thought it was a unique concept in teaching manual methods on patients while they are supine.

Overall, you will find these clips superb. There is a lot of information to learn and review; however, being able to spin through it on this form of media allows you to learn as time allows. Dr. Dalton does a good job of passing on the work of the late Dr. Janda. It is believed that Dr. Dalton is found to be in alignment with some of chiropractic’s principles, particularly his belief that just fixing pain is an ineffective approach to better health. His goal is to balance the compensatory patterns of the body while working toward a total structural correction. He gets close, but does not adjust the spine, suggesting a referral to his “chiropractic buddies” when a muscular approach isn’t enough.

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