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The McKenzie Method

McKenzie theorized that most back and neck pain is "mechanical" in origin, meaning that an applied force caused the pain. A basic philosophy of McKenzie's theory is that the reverse force can probably abolish the pain and restore function.

The McKenzie method beings with a thorough logical evaluation of the movements of your spine. Each patient's pain and movement pattern in response to the evaluation movements allows the examiner to categorize the patient's problem and thereby determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

Following the examination the patient is educated regarding which movement would be beneficial to reduce the pain and how to decrease the likelihood of recurrences. One advantage of the McKenzie method is the active involvement of the patient with regards to their own symptom management. Often the exercises prescribed are very simple, yet effective, at reducing pain whenever it is felt. The simplicity of the exercises allows the patient to "self treat" whenever symptoms occur instead of having to wait until their next appointment for relief. For patients with more difficult problems a McKenzie therapist can administer advanced hands-on techniques until the patient can effectively "self treat".

Once the symptoms are eliminated the treatment changes slightly to include restoration of full flexibility and function. This includes educating each patient in the appropriate preventive measures required to eliminate any recurrences of the symptoms.