​Proprioceptive - Deep Tendon Reflex

The Proprioceptive Deep Tendon Reflex® method, or P-DTR for short, is a comprehensive system of functional neurology that emphasizes the critical role of sensory receptors and the brain's processing of this information in determining neuromuscular responses throughout the body. When the incoming information from proprioceptors is faulty, motor control becomes compromised, leading to pain and dysfunction. Developed by Dr. Jose Palomar, an orthopedic surgeon from Mexico, P-DTR is rooted in the understanding that many musculoskeletal pain conditions and functional health problems stem from dysfunctional receptor signaling.
To understand the name, let’s break it down:
* **Proprioception** refers to our ‘sense of self’—the awareness of where our body and its parts are in space. This sense relies on input from sensory nerve endings in muscles, joints, and other areas of the body. In P-DTR, these sensory nerve endings are referred to as ‘receptors.’
* **Deep Tendon Reflex** encompasses any tendon reflex, such as the patellar reflex at the knee, which is used to reset dysfunction.

Dr. Palomar discovered that the majority of musculoskeletal pain and many functional health issues are caused by dysfunctional receptor signaling. When sensory information is accurate and interpreted correctly by the central nervous system (CNS), all systems function properly, indicating a healthy state. Conversely, faulty incoming signals or inaccurate brain interpretation can lead to disease. It’s akin to a car alarm that goes off whenever the wind blows—its sensors (receptors) are either too sensitive or miscalibrated.

P-DTR was developed as a structured method for identifying and resolving these issues. Manual muscle testing is employed to pinpoint the areas of dysfunction. Once identified, various neurological stimuli are applied to the affected area. The type of stimulus depends on which receptor is dysfunctional. This could involve techniques such as poking with a toothpick, applying pressure to a tendon or ligament, or using tuning forks to detect vibration dysfunctions.
​For effective treatment, it is crucial to identify both the primary dysfunctional receptor and its main compensatory receptor. Once both are found, treatment becomes straightforward. The practitioner co-stimulates these receptors simultaneously and elicits a deep tendon reflex (DTR) to recalibrate the system. This process often leads to immediate results, such as pain elimination, restored range of motion, and corrected posture.
While the concept may seem complex, consider this relatable example: many of us have experienced hitting our funny bone. When this happens, our body reflexively withdraws from the site of contact to protect itself. The extensors in the shoulder contract to pull away, while the flexors inhibit to allow this action. This occurs without conscious thought. Typically, we rub the area, and the pain subsides quickly, leading us to forget about it. However, there can be a neurological disturbance left behind. If the pain receptor in the elbow does not calm down as it should, it may continue sending excessive signals to the brain. In response, the brain might inhibit the shoulder flexors, leading to compensatory muscle fatigue over time. Eventually, this can result in shoulder pain, seemingly arising overnight, even though it may have developed gradually due to the initial injury.
In summary, P-DTR is a sophisticated yet effective method for addressing pain and dysfunction by recalibrating the body’s sensory input and neuromuscular responses. By understanding and correcting dysfunctional receptor signaling, practitioners can help individuals achieve lasting relief and improved physical function.

By truly grasping the practical APPLICATION of neurology, we can easily make sense of the complexities of pain science. Ultimately, pain is a not an input to the body, but rather a conclusion by the brain.
Change the input. Change the conclusion.