The McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis

Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (the McKenzie Method) is now considered an essential component in the patient-centred non-surgical approach to spinal management. The method and its component parts have
been described in detail across the manual therapy literature. One such component is the centralisation phenomenon which provides the therapist with a key prognostic indicator and offers a reliable guide to the appropriate treatment strategy. There will be a large practical element to the day.

A common perception is that the McKenzie Method comprises solely of a set of extension exercises that patients perform as a home programme. Although many patients respond to extension loading, this is however only part of the story. Force alternatives also include loading in flexion and lateral directions and force progressions include patient generated procedures through to mobilisation and ultimately manipulation. This seminar will provide participants with an introduction to Robin McKenzie’s method as it relates to lumbar spine related back and leg pain. It is suitable for all manual therapists including chiropractors, osteopaths and physiotherapists involved in the treatment of mechanical spinal pain.

Topics will include:

• Misconceptions about Mechanical Diagnosis and Theory

• Sub classification and the 3 syndromes (derangement, dysfunction, postural)

• Centralisation and directional preference

• Force progressions and force alternatives

• Evidence base

• Practical application of the most frequently used techniques