HOW will I fix the problem?

Animal Normalization Techniques (ANT) include many non-invasive, manual-therapy techniques based on the Principles of Osteopathy. They may be divided into two basic categories, Direct and Indirect techniques, depending upon how the practitioner addresses the restrictions in the body’s tissues.

  • Direct Techniques – the practitioner thrusts “through” the restrictive barrier. Includes high velocity/low amplitude (chiropractic) and muscle energy techniques.
  • Indirect Techniques – the practitioner works “away” from the restrictive barrier setting up the tissue to “unwind” and then move freely through the restrictive barrier on its own.

The treatment modality selected depends upon the practitioner’s training and the patient’s problems. There are at least 6 different categories of Animal Normalization Techniques (ANT) we use daily in treating patients: Vascular ANT, Lymphatic ANT, Fascia/Dura ANT, Fascia BioMechanics, Fascia Visceral ANT and Functional Indirect Techniques for joint mobilizations. Below are brief descriptions of the rest of the techniques.

FUNCTIONAL INDIRECT TECHNIQUES (FIT): With direct techniques, the segment being treated, is positioned towards (against) the restrictive barrier. With indirect techniques, the segment being treated is taken away from the restrictive barrier, towards the opposite physiological barrier and follows an unwinding process. The last technique is pain free and preferred by most animals.

A restrictive barrier feels tight when pressure is applied against it and further pressure can cause discomfort. A physiological barrier is the barrier of resisting soft tissues from muscles and fascia. Then when you go into the restrictive barrier (tension builds up), you need to “back off” until it relieves tension and relaxes. Between the restrictive barrier and the opposite physiological barrier is a Dynamic Balance Point (DBP). This is the point in the joint where the surrounding tissues are the MOST relaxed and easiest the manipulate (is called the “position of ease”).

At the DBP, the practitioner adds a slight “compression” or “distraction” to start the unwinding process of the restricted joint (s), until full range of motion and normal arthro-kinematics is restored. The technique, which integrates several neuro-physiological systems simultaneously, is pain free, easy to use, and has a long-lasting impact on resolution of the dysfunctions.

NEUROLOGICAL GAIT TECHNIQUES: These Animal Normalization Techniques (ANT) techniques help restore the neurological “regulation” of the joints and musculo-skeletal system regarding the gait cycle.

Four main “Routers” are used to resolve problems in the neurological “timing gear” of joint capsules, fascia, ligaments, muscles, membranes, and tendons in relationship to the gait cycle. ANT restores and normalize, with the use of the routers, the normal timing gear to allow the body to move freely and “gait” normal again.

The routers include:
1. Mandible router for release of the cervical spine and cranium
2. Thoracic router for the thoracic spine, ribcage and front legs
3. Visceral router for organs both above and below the diaphragm
4. Pubis router for the lumbar spine, the pelvis and the rear legs