The McKenzie system of management of spinal and musculoskeletal disorders was developed by New Zealand physiotherapist Robin McKenzie.
In addition to academic literature, McKenzie has authored two patient-oriented texts which have been sold in over 4 million copies in dozens of languages, and have been successful in treating numerous cases with little to no additional intervention.
The essence of the McKenzie method is to teach patients to treat their own mechanical musculoskeletal problems through education and a symptom specific exercise program. Treatment is based on partnership between patient and therapist.
Benefits include:
- Improvement usually seen in 1-2 visits
- Accuracy of assessment. Conclusions of McKenzie method compare favorably with CT scans and discograms.
- Patient directed care and self-reliance. Treatment tools are given to patient to take responsibility for their own health.
- Reduced treatment cycle due to patient participation.
- Wide range of appropriate patients, such as those with:
- Acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain
- Sciatica or brachialgia for whom CT or MRI are being considered
- Little improvement with other treatment plans
- Motivation to participate with their own recovery
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Further information can be found at www.mckenziemdt.org.