in its truest sense the mckenzie method@
TRANSCRIPT
In its truest sensethe McKenzie Method@
three steps to success
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Unique to the McKenzie Method, the process begins with
a thorough history and testing of movements to identify
distinct patterns of pain responses that are: reproducible,objective, reliable, and reflect the characteristics of the
underlying pain generator.
The most common and meaningful pattern of pain re
sponse is Centralization, which is well documented now
in literature as both a diagnostic tool and a prognostic in
dicator. This is defined as a patient's referred or radiating
pain (whether just slightly off the center, into the buttock,
or all the way to the toes) promptly reversing, returning tothe center of the back, and then usually also abolishing.
Whether the patient's pain is acute or chronic, if Central
ization occurs through this logical step-by-step assessment process, good outcornes are favorable. It providesa benefit to the patient and practitioner by eliminating the
need for expensive and/or invasive procedures.
Ultimately, it provides a rational guide to the most optimal
treatment strategy for a specific patient.
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The most basic, faulty assumption made about the
McKenzie Method is equating it with fl!1fY extensionexercises - it is so much more.
When appropriate, the basis of McKenzie treatment
takes advantage of the patient's own movements and
forces to abolish the pain and restore function, A seriesof individualized exercises subsequent to the patient's
responses during the assessment are prescribed and
- most critically - are based on the DirectionalPreference that will centralize or abolish pain, i.e"
extension or flexion, right or left lateral movement, etc.
In essence, the treatment must match the assessment
findings or the results will be inferior,
Furthermore, as Robin McKenzie states in his original
1981 text, "If no movement or position can be found tocentralize or reduce the patient's presenting pain, the
patient is not a suitable subject for mechanical therapy,"
In cases when a patient does not respond mechanically,alternative means of treatment or referral for further
medical evaluation is warranted.
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Most patients who do respond favorably to MDT
can successfully treat themselves-and minimize
the number of visits to the clinic-when provided
the necessary knowledge and tools putting him orher in control of their treatment safely and effectively.
Patients who stick to the prescribed treatment
protocols are less likely to have persistent problems.
Thus, by learning how to self-treat the current
problem, patients gain hands-on knowledge onhow to minimize the risk of recurrence and how to
quiCkly manage themselves if symptoms do occur.
Achievable goals of McKenzie MDT are to:
• Reduce pain and deformity
• Maintain the reduction with
education and posture advice
• Restore full function
• Prevent recurrences
To verify currently certified McKenzie MDT practitioners,
visit The McKenzie Institute website: http://www,mckenziemdt.org
Take the time and necessary steps to insurethat healthcare providers claiming to use the McKenzie Method
are adequately trained.
The McKenzie Institute USAprovides the only US sanctioned
training in the McKenzie Method. The Program of Certification
consists of a four-part series of courses and a CredentialingExamination (Cert.MDT). Eligible practitioners may then opt to
pursue the 360-clinical hour Diploma Program-our highest level
of training (Dip,MDT),
Be sure your practitioner carries the initials Cert.MDT or Dip,MDT
after their name. The McKenzie Institute provides an onlineTherapist Locator of actively certified MDT practitioners,
The McKenzie Institute USA126 N. Salina Street
Syracuse, NY 13202-1059
Tel: 1-800-635-8380
E-mail: [email protected]
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visit mckenzie online @
www.mckenziemdt.org
• FIND AND VERIFY MCKENZIE MDT CERTIFIED PRACTITIONERS
• COURSE AND EXAM SCHEDULES FOR PROFESSIONALS
• OBTAIN REFERENCES FOR RESEARCH
Brewer Physical Therapy and Spine Clinic797 Wilson St. 989-4122
Ellsworth Physical Therapy and Spine Clinic160 Bangor Rd. 667-8820