Dr. Austrager of Metrowest Spine Clinic in Framingham is now offering the Interactive Metronome® (IM), a computer-based technology to enhance motor planning, sequencing and timing which can improve learning and a variety of types of performance that depend on the ability to plan and sequence actions and ideas.

The Interactive Metronome® uses rhythmic and movement treatment exercises that have been found to improve motor planning and coordination in both children and adults in academic and sports endeavors. In addition, IM performance correlates with academic achievement in areas such as mathematics, language, reading, and attention to task. In a recent clinical study the Interactive Metronome® was found to produce significant gains in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the areas of concentration, motor planning, control of aggression, language processing and reading. These findings are consistent with recent research on the growth of the brain that indicates that environmental influences, not just genetics, can facilitate a child’s development.

The Interactive Metronome® involves the principles of the traditional, musical metronome, combined with the precision of a personal computer to create engaging interactive treatment exercises. The interactive metronome program uses head phones along with hand and foot sensors to coordinate movements to computer-generated musical beats. Like training wheels on a bicycle, a patented auditory guidance system progressively challenges participants to improve their motor planning, sequencing and rhythmic timing performance.

T.J., a seven year old boy was diagnosed with ADHD. He was prescribed Ritalin, but his parents were still concerned about his behavior. They noted that he continued to have difficulty in sustaining attention, sitting still, and completing tasks. He was evaluated and prescribed a 15 session treatment plan. T.J. came in for the 15 sessions on the interactive metronome. At the completion of the last session, he had improved 81% with his motor coordination and timing. T.J.'s parents noted that one of the most significant changes was his ability to now interact with his neighborhood peers. At his 3 month follow up, his parents noted that he continued to try new motor activities and is now even rollerblading. They stated that the physical changes have stuck and he is more interactive and self confident too."

Interactive Metronome, Inc. is based in Weston, Florida. The company offers its patented Interactive Metronome® treatment through 3,000 certified IM providers in more than 2,000 clinics, hospitals and universities throughout the United States and Canada. (Call toll free 877-994-6776 or visit www.interactivemetronome.com

Dr. Howard Austrager, DC is the owner and clinic director of Metrowest Spine Clinic in Framingham for the past 11 years. Dr. Austrager focuses his practice on integrating the Brain and Body using specific neurological principles. He is a Board Eligible Chiropractic Neurologist. He has worked with both adults and children on the interactive metronome, including his own child who had a language delay. His office is located at 235 Walnut Street in Framingham. For additional questions or information, Dr. Austrager can be reached at his office at 508-620-1585 or by visiting www.metrowestspineclinic.com

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