The McKenzie Method

The McKenzie method for neck and lower back pain includes exercises tailored to the patient’s condition that will gradually centralize or remove pain. With the McKenzie approach a licensed physical therapist will perform an initial assessment and then tailor treatment and prevention strategies specific to each patient. These techniques are best learned with the help of a physical therapist trained in the method but once proper technique is learned, the patient is able to perform these exercises in the convenience of their home.

The goal of the McKenzie approach for neck and lower back pain is to centralize the pain by moving it from the extremities to the back. Since typically back pain is better tolerated than pain in the extremities the theory is that the therapist can then treat the source of the pain rather than just the symptoms. Other goals include:

• Help patients learn to manage their own pain
• Expedited reduction in pain
• Return to daily activities
• Help minimize future pain

Conditions treated with McKenzie approach include:

• Ankle pain
• Back pain
• Degenerative disc disease
• Knee pain
• Muscle spasms
• Neck pain
• Sciatica
• SI joint pain
• Shoulder pain

Is the McKenzie approach for neck and lower back pain safe?

When performed by a licensed physical therapist the McKenzie Method is a safe and effective form of physical therapy.

The McKenzie method is offered in many of our clinics!