Solving back pain with the McKenzie Method
What is the McKenzie Method?
The McKenzie Method, also known as Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), was developed by physiotherapist Robin McKenzie. McKenzie’s innovative approach to assessing and treating musculoskeletal conditions has gained widespread recognition for its emphasis on patient involvement and self-care in managing back pain and related issues. In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of the McKenzie Method, exploring its principles, process, and the diverse range of conditions it can effectively address.
The McKenzie Method is a comprehensive system of assessment and treatment designed to empower individuals to manage and reduce their own back pain. This method is based on the fundamental principle that certain movements and postures can either exacerbate or alleviate back pain.
How does McKenzie work?
The McKenzie Method involves a systematic assessment to classify and categorize the back pain into distinct mechanical patterns. These patterns guide the development of personalized exercise regimens to address the root cause of the pain. The process comprises three key steps:
- Assessment: A thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, response to movements, and posture to classify the back pain into specific mechanical subgroups.
- Treatment: Based on the identified mechanical subgroup, a tailored exercise program is prescribed to correct and alleviate the specific issues causing the pain. These exercises are designed to be performed by the patient independently.
- Prevention: Patients are educated on how to prevent future episodes of back pain by incorporating specific movements and exercises into their daily routines.
To better illustrate the process, let’s consider an example. If a patient presents with low back pain that increases when bending forward but decreases when extending backward, they might be classified as having a directional preference for extension.
What can McKenzie treat?
Conditions Addressed by the McKenzie Method: The McKenzie Method has shown efficacy in treating a wide array of musculoskeletal conditions, including but not limited to:
- Herniated Discs
- Sciatica
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Facet Joint Dysfunction
- Spondylolisthesis
- Muscle Strains
- Postural Syndrome
Does it work?
Tens of thousands of people have experienced the transformative effects of this method.
Check out some testimonials below!
What can McKenzie treat?
The McKenzie Method stands out as an effective and empowering approach to managing back pain. By involving patients in their own care and addressing the mechanical aspects of their conditions, this method offers a path to relief and prevention. If you’re struggling with back pain, book a session with Valencia Physio now.
We are fully certified practitioners of the McKenzie Method and will help resolve your back issues right away – even if you have been suffering for a while.
