From the Guidelines
The McKenzie Method is a highly recommended approach for back pain treatment, focusing on mechanical diagnosis, specific exercises, and posture correction to centralize pain and promote healing. The method involves a thorough assessment to classify the patient's pain into mechanical subgroups, determining the appropriate treatment protocol [ 1 ]. This approach is supported by the American College of Physicians, which recommends nonpharmacologic treatments such as exercise and spinal manipulation for patients with acute, subacute, or chronic low back pain [ 1 ]. Key aspects of the McKenzie Method include:
- A comprehensive assessment to classify the patient's pain
- Specific exercises, such as extension or flexion movements, to centralize pain
- Posture correction to prevent further injury and promote healing
- Patient education and self-management to empower individuals to manage their condition
- A focus on addressing the mechanical causes of pain rather than just treating symptoms The McKenzie Method is effective because it promotes tissue healing through movement, empowers patients to manage their own condition, and addresses the underlying mechanical causes of pain [ 1 ]. In clinical practice, the McKenzie Method can be used in conjunction with other nonpharmacologic treatments, such as heat, massage, or acupuncture, to provide comprehensive care for patients with back pain [ 1 ].
From the Research
Overview of the McKenzie Method
- The McKenzie method is a widely used approach for treating patients with nonspecific low back pain 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- It involves an individualized program of exercises based on clinical clues observed during assessment 4
Efficacy of the McKenzie Method
- There is low-certainty evidence that the McKenzie method may result in a slight reduction in pain in the short term, but not in the intermediate term 4
- The McKenzie method may not reduce disability in the short term or intermediate term 4
- A study found that the McKenzie method was slightly more effective than the Back School method for disability, but not for pain intensity immediately after treatment in participants with chronic low back pain 3
Comparison with Other Interventions
- The McKenzie method may not reduce pain or disability when compared to manual therapy or other interventions such as massage and advice 4
- A study found that the McKenzie method was superior to patient education in a "mini back school" for five out of seven variables studied, including return to work and recurrences of pain 6
Clinical Outcomes
- Measurements of spinal movements and flexibility of spine showed significant improvement in all patients who received the McKenzie exercise program 5
- Pain intensity was reduced significantly as a result of treatment with the McKenzie method 5, 6
- The McKenzie method was found to be beneficial for increasing flexibility of spine and improving pain, with better results in pain relief 5