The McKenzie Method for neck
and back problems
The McKenzie Method approach to exercises
and neck and back problems
Practitioners who use this approach emphasize
that the McKenzie Method is a specific approach
to spinal problems, not only a set of exercises
for back pain or neck pain. While there
are specific exercises a McKenzie trained practitioner
may use, the method also includes the overall
philosophy and some special procedures:
-
Initial assessment procedures
-
Treatment for back and neck problems
(self-help and special procedures, if indicated)
-
Prevention strategies for back
problems
The method itself centers on the classification of
spinal disorders or conditions based on symptoms
and responses to specific initial assessment
procedures. Based on the classification,
the patient is instructed on specific exercises
to gradually centralize or abolish the pain. The
classifications include:
-
Postural syndromes – back pain or
neck pain caused by continued stress of soft
tissues while maintaining certain postures
or positions.
-
Derangement syndromes - back pain or neck
pain caused by a change in position of the
vertebrae enclosing a disc due to repositioning
of the fluid nucleus of the disc; pain will
change with repeated motion.
- Dysfunction syndromes - intermittent back
pain and limited movement caused by the presence
of scar tissue in a shortened state; back
pain occurs when these tissues are stressed.
McKenzie Institute International for back
pain and neck pain
An organization was formed in 1982 by physical
therapists in New Zealand who were using this
approach to treat patients. The International
headquarters is in New Zealand. The organization
has branches in 26 countries throughout the world. Each
branch provides courses to teach practitioners “The
McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy.”
The founder, Robin McKenzie, has written a number
of books on the self-help approach to treatment
of back and neck pain. Recently he has
written a book on the treatment of extremity
problems.
If you decide to pursue this approach, most
spine specialists will suggest that you visit
a physical therapist that is trained in this
approach. The McKenzie Institute International
has a program of certification and a diploma
program, and has an online listing of credentialed
and diploma practitioners around the world.
By: Vert Mooney,
MD
July 27, 2000 (Updated
November 14, 2005) |
