The site is the largest resource of research, education and exercise illustrations on elastic resistance available today. The database contains information and applications for rehabilitation exercises using Thera-Band products including elastic resistance bands and tubing, balance products, exercise balls, hand therapy and aquatic products. It offers downloadable resources such as research references, exercises, patient brochures and articles that are searchable by body part, injury, disease, population, sport and product.
 

"If a therapist or doctor is treating a patient who needs to improve balance, they can click on  balance products and search the database and find research references on balance programs, patient brochures and exercises they can customize for their patient," said Phil Page, PT, ATC, manager of research and clinical education for The Hygenic Corporation.
 

"The goal of the Academy is to help bridge the gap between research and clinical practice to support evidence-based practice," Page said. "We designed the site to be as comprehensive as possible, yet not be overwhelming."
 

The Thera-Band Academy Advisory Board, a voluntary group of leading physicians, professional therapists, athletic trainers and university professors from around the world, regularly contribute research and exercise programs to the database, offering users a variety of international approaches and research.
 

The site also has information about the Academy including clinical workshop schedules and registration information for the "Beyond the Basics: Bands, Balls and Balance" and "The Janda Approach to Musculoskeletal Pain Syndromes" workshops, as well as downloadable applications for research grants. Additionally, site visitors interested in receiving the latest information about new research and exercise programs can sign up to receive the Academy's e-newsletter. In the "Ask the Expert" section visitors can read frequently asked questions or query the Academy faculty.
 

The Thera-Band Academy was formed by Hygenic Corporation in 1999 to scientifically document the benefits of resistive exercise, guide the company in its development of new product and exercise programs, and promote therapeutic exercise through professional and consumer education.