McKenzie Method

What is the McKenzie Method?

The McKenzie Method is a system of evaluating and treating spinal disorders that was developed by New Zealand Physiotherapist, Robin McKenzie. It is practiced extensively throughout the world in 40 countries and 5 continents.

This is an active treatment philosophy that emphasizes teaching the client how to manage and treat the pain themselves as well as how to prevent the pain from occurring again. It is also explained how important posture and their personalized exercise program are to maintaining an active lifestyle.

The McKenzie approach can also be used for the management of problems with the joints or muscles of the arms or legs.

Why is this different to other treatments?

The person is encouraged to take an active role in their own recovery with the emphasis being on self-treatment.

Assessment: On your first visit, a McKenzie trained clinician will give you a thorough examination which is designed to determine what may be causing your pain. This will involve having you do specific repeated movements and positions to see how these affect or change your pain. From this, a personalized treatment program will be designed and taught. Robin McKenzie feels that people can treat themselves as long as they are given the correct education.

Prevention: During the course of treatment, the person is educated how to prevent and manage future problems with their spine or extremities. A custom maintenance program is designed to deal with sudden attacks of pain.

For more detailed, professional level information about the McKenzie Method, see the McKenzie Institute International website.