McKenzie Method

Several physical therapists are trained and certified in the McKenzie Method of therapy that addresses spine/back pain. McKenzie is a three step process that begins with hands on evaluation, after which individualized exercises are prescribed, and concludes with prevention information that gives patients the tools to keep pain from recurring as often, and to minimize its intensity if it should come back.

Types of pain that respond to McKenzie Method include

• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Radiculopathy
• Sciatica
• Headaches
• Numbness/tingling in hands/feet

Step 1: Assessment

Unique to the McKenzie Method® is a comprehensive and logical step-by-step process to evaluate the patient’s problem quickly. This mechanical examination can “classify” most patient conditions by the level of pain or limitation that results from certain movements or positions. A McKenzie assessment can eliminate the need for expensive, invasive procedures

Step 2: Treatment

McKenzie treatment prescribes a series of individualized exercises. The emphasis is on active patient involvement, which minimizes the number of visits to the clinic. Ultimately, most patients can successfully treat themselves when provided the necessary knowledge and tools. For patients with more difficult mechanical problems, a certified McKenzie clinician can provide advanced hands-on techniques until the patient can self administer.

Step 3: Prevention

By learning how to self-treat the current problem, patients gain hands-on knowledge on how to minimize the risk of recurrence and to rapidly deal with recurrence if it occurs. The likelihood of problems persisting can more likely be prevented through self-maintenance.