DNS A introduces the fundamentals of developmental kinesiology and ontogenesis with a heavy emphasis on defining, assessing, and restoring optimal sagittal stabilization through the non-differentiated developmental positions. This course is often an eye-opener for participants, who will walk away with unparalleled knowledge and skills in restoring optimal sagittal stabilization and a new lens to assess human movement.

1. Improve understanding of the basic principles of developmental kinesiology with an emphasis on development during the first year of life
2. Identify and describe key milestones in human development
3. Introduce the three level of sensorimotor control in functional assessment and treatment
4. Demonstrate the relationship between development during the first year of life and pathology of the locomotor system in adulthood
5. Introduce new terminology pertinent to rehabilitation such as functional joint centration, punctum fixum, punctum mobile and the integrated stabilizing system of the spine
6. Define ideal postural stabilization from a developmental perspective: intra-abdominal pressure regulation, dual role of the diaphragm in stabilization and respiration, stabilization via co-contraction
7. Identify common stereotypes of faulty postural stabilization (“open scissors syndrome”, forward drown posture, backward drown posture, “hour glass syndrome”)
8. Explain and demonstrate biomechanics of homologous, ipsilateral and contralateral postural-locomotion patterns; closed and opened kinematic chains, stepping forward and supporting function
9. Evaluate and correct poor respiratory patterns
10. Demonstrate the correlation between poor respiration patterns and functional pathology of the locomotor system
11. Assess the integrated stabilizing system of the spine both visually and utilizing dynamic functional tests
12. Integrate corrective exercises based on the DNS functional tests and developmental positions: exercise in homologous static positions; position transfer during locomotor function; exercise progression using unstable surfaces; increased difficulty of the exercises utilizing resistance, dual tasking and other challenges
13. Clarify how DNS corrective exercises can integrate with other exercise strategies
14. Cover the basics of application of DNS concept in sport training
15. Provide basic clinical management explanation for clinicians to better integrate the DNS approach in their regular practice, including patient education
16. Optimally prepare students for the next level of training (Course “B”)