The Mckenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy is an approach to assess and treat the spine and is widely recommended as the first choice for common back and neck problems worldwide. Most low back pain is "mechanical" in origin, meaning that an applied force caused the pain. A basic philosophy of McKenzie's theory is that the reverse force can most likeley abolish the pain and restore function.
McKenzie credits the patient's ability to learn the principles and empowers them to be in control of their own symptom management, which can reduce dependency on medical intervention. The McKenzie Method promotes the body's potential to heal itself without medication, heat, cold, ultrasound, needles, surgery or a force dependent on the practitioner.
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.
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.
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.