OPTIMA

Weakness in the muscles surrounding the spine is one of the most common contributing factors in neck and back pain. Damaged or weak spinal extensors are the "weak link" in the musculoskeletal system due to being constantly over-powered by the larger, stronger surrounding musculature.

The weak spinal extensors must be isolated for effective and proper strengthening. No other system of rehabilitation has the capability to isolate these muscle groups in the manner in which MedX technology can. Once these tissues have been strengthened, they will contribute at a normal ratio, which can be maintained by an independent exercise program.

Optima's MedX employs isometric testing techniques (muscular contraction against a resistance in which the length of the muscle remains the same), rather than the widely-used isokinetic methods (muscular contraction in which tension is developed by the muscle while shortening at a constant speed).

Years of study and evaluation have proven isometric testing superior. In fact, it is the most effective and safest way to measure peak muscle torque of injured spinal tissues.

MedX technology is also used to provide the most specific resistance-based exercise program for rehabilitation of neck and back injuries of all types. Once a spine region has been tested, rehabilitation begins with isotonic methods to dynamically establish stabilization while in isolation. This is done in conjunction with aerobic, flexibility, ancillary progressive resistance, and standard physical therapy procedures.