Ep 203. DNS, Breathing & Trunk Stability: What Most PTs Miss with Dr. Michael Maxwell

💭 "The second you try to isolate a muscle to create stabilization, you will fundamentally create dysfunction."  - Dr. Michael Maxwell

👉🏻 Dr. Michael Maxwell, DC, BHK is a chiropractor and educator whose mission is to deliver research-backed, practical MSK education. He is Canada’s only Certified Instructor for Michael Shacklock’s Clinical Neurodynamics and a Certified Instructor for Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS).

With over 20 years of experience, from personal training and medical exercise to chiropractic practice, Michael integrates movement-based manual therapy and exercise interventions. He has organized more than 300 continuing education courses across Canada featuring world-renowned clinicians, and he regularly teaches at postgraduate courses and conferences internationally.

This unique combination of clinical experience, extensive training, and exposure to leading educators positions him to offer exceptional continuing education for health professionals.

📚In this episode, you'll learn:

• What DNS actually is (and common misconceptions)

• How motor control shapes movement and stability

• A new perspective on the “core” (breathing vs hollowing/bracing)

• How to apply it in rehab (including strengths and limitations)

🔎Michael's Resource of Information:

• • Courses by Michael

  • Kolář, P., et al. (2012). Postural function of the diaphragm in persons with and without chronic low back pain. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 42(4), 352–362.  

  • Sembera M, et al. Postural-respiratory function of the diaphragm assessed by M-mode ultrasonography. PLoS One. 2022;17(10):e0275389.

  • Rabieezadeh A, et al. The effects of an 8-week dynamic neuromuscular stabilization exercise on pain, functional disability, and quality of life in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2024;16:161.

  • Kolář P, et al. Analysis of Diaphragm Movement during Tidal Breathing and during its Activation while Breath Holding Using MRI Synchronized with Spirometry. Physiol Res. 2009;58:383-392.

  • Lee NG, et al. Best Core Stabilization for Anticipatory Postural Adjustment and Falls in Hemiparetic Stroke. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2018;99(11):2168-2174.

  • Cha YJ, et al. The Best Lumbothoracic-Cervical Chain Stabilization Exercise for Longus Colli Activation. J Med Imaging Health Inform. 2018;8(1):84-87.

  • Son MS, et al. Effects of dynamic neuromuscular stabilization on diaphragm movement, postural control, balance and gait performance in cerebral palsy. NeuroRehabilitation. 2017;41(4):735-743.

  • Yoon HS, You JSH. Reflex-mediated dynamic neuromuscular stabilization in stroke patients: EMG processing and ultrasound imaging. Technol Health Care. 2017;25(S1):99-106. doi: 10.3233/THC-171311.

  • Kobesova A, et al. Can Exercise Targeting Mid-Thoracic Spine Segmental Movement Reduce Back Pain and Improve Sensory Perception in Cross-Country Skiers? Clin J Sport Med. 2021;31(2):e86-e94.

    • Frank C, et al. Dynamic neuromuscular stabilization & sports rehabilitation. Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2013;8(1):62-73.

📲 Michael's contact information:

• Website

• LinkedIn

• IG

• Facebook

• Youtube

🎥Link to interview on Youtube 

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