The McKenzie Method (MDT) was developed by a New Zealand physiotherapist, Robin McKenzie. It has been an acclaimed tool for over 30 years. The assessment tool enables the diagnosis and treatment of spinal pain. However, it’s also used to assess pain in other extremities.
Pain around the spine, joints, or muscles can be evaluated with this tool. The trained physicians assess areas associated with the musculoskeletal system. It’s even possible to diagnose a patient without the use of an MRI scan. MDT is a safe and reliable way to diagnose and treat pain.
Physicians trained in the McKenzie Method can help treat:
- Sciatica
- Arthritis pain in the hips, buttocks, or shoulders
- Pain in the back that radiates outward or downward
- Aching pain in the elbows not relieved with treatment
- Back stiffness and difficulty bending
- Intermittent numbness in the hands and feet
Is the McKenzie Method Right for You?
To ascertain if MDT is for you, a simple self-assessment is required. Questions to determine this include the following:
- Do you have periods when there is no pain?
- Is the pain confined to one area? If so, above or below the knee?
- Do you feel worse after prolonged bending/stooping?
- Does your lower back feel better when lying face down?
- Is the pain worsened with activity? If so, what particular activity?
- Do you feel worse when active?
- Is pain reduced with movement?
- Does the pain get better with walking?
Answering yes to four or more of these means MDT is a good fit for you. Answering yes to less than four is questionable. However, you still should contact a McKenzie-trained physician. You may need a more specialized assessment.
What Does MDT Involve?
MDT method begins with a physician going through medical history and symptoms. During the assessment, certain movements need to be performed. Unlike other assessments, MDT involves repeated movements. The assessment is based on how the symptoms and range of movement change.
The assessment will determine a diagnosis. McKenzie Method is a comprehensive classification system. It includes a group of patients that are classified into smaller subgroups. However, there are no main syndromes. Instead, diagnosis falls under serious pathologies. For example, non-mechanical causes, and chronic pain.
As part of your treatment, a McKenzie lumbar or cervical roll can be done. This helps with the self-management of pain. There are also self-help books available. These offer information and exercises to support the self-management of back pain. The duration and frequency of your treatment program will depend on the severity of your diagnosis.
If you are wondering if the McKenzie Method is right for you, call us at 888-409-8006. A McKenzie specialist will be glad to assist!
