What is the McKenzie method?
McHod® is a rehabilitation approach to diagnosis, treatment and prevention of spine problems. The diagnosis includes a problem assessment based on pain associated with function and movement. Then a treatment plan based on the disorder category is developed. The methodology, sometimes referred to as MDT, was developed by a physiotherapist in New Zealand as a comprehensive approach not only to assess the initial problem, but to the formulation of the therapeutic plan that includes the patient's education and allows him to manage therapy.
The type of physical therapy that the patient receives depends on the cause of the disease. Some diseases require larger professional treatment than others and some might require assessment and treatment of orthopedist. Using the principles of causes and consequences, the physiotherapist generally examines the patient to determine what movements cause pain and where the patient feels discomfort in the spine.
According to McHod®, postural syndrome usually involves discomfort and pain caused by stress on soft tissue when the patient is in certain attitudes or physical positions. The disruption syndrome concerns discomfort or pain when the changes in position are emphasized on incorrectly aligned anatomical features. This can happen in case of bulging or cracked discs. Dysfunctional syndrome usually includes discomfort, pain and reduction of movement caused by more serious structural abnormalities. Physical problems contributing to this syndrome may include fibrosis or scars tissue that limits functioning and causes discomfort when these areas are subject to stress.
Exercise or manipulative therapies that extend the spine and alleviate stress on problem areas are part of the treatment prescribed The McHod®. The overall approach is designed to quickly relieve pain, restore movement and independence and minimize the need for professional intervention. USPOking results generally rely on the willingness of the patient to learn and follow the treatment regimen. Patient education may include patient teaching about the reason for the problem in addition to designing exercise programs and other measures to prevent the disease from being repeated. Heat, colds, ultrasound and other pain relief methods are usually not used with the McKenzie method.
McHod® exercise for self -healing is usually designed to strengthen the abdominal, back and large leg muscles. Therapists generally demonstrate and observe patients while performing the required exercises to ensure proper design. The combination of exercises helps eliminate discomfort by strengthening the muscles that provide spine support.