Back pain is the second most common cause for doctor’s visits, outnumbered by upper-respiratory infections. It is the single leading cause of missed work and disability worldwide. As a clinician board certified in orthopedics, I was determined to understand and render effective treatments to relieve individuals consulting me with this debilitating diagnosis. My approach to treating this most prevalent medical diagnosis changed when my colleagues in New York Presbyterian – Hudson Valley Hospital introduced me to the McKenzie courses. My encounter with the McKenzie Techniques in 2009 revolutionized my clinical skills in treating not just lower back pathologies but other musculoskeletal conditions as well.
As I sat to write this blog, I didn’t have to think twice on the topic to write. My clinical experiences and outcomes with the McKenzie technique compel me to reach to as many people as possible. McKenzie techniques, currently known as Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment, developed by Robin McKenzie was initially for the lumbar spine. However, through years of research and practice he applied these techniques successfully to the thoracic and cervical spine and to all peripheral joints and their surrounding soft tissues. Today this technique is an established evidence based treatment technique that treats the whole musculoskeletal system.
Mechanical Diagnosis and treatment is the simplest way that trained clinicians can educate patients on what is or might be happening to their body following a scientific system of assessment and treatment. It aids the clinician to foretell possible responses to treatment which prepares and eases the patient to what is expected. At the end of their initial evaluation patients are equipped with the skill to control their pain without medications or pain relieving modalities.
At PTPC, unlike any other nearby out-patient facility all the clinicians are trained in the McKenzie technique. So, if you or anyone who you know is suffering from musculoskeletal pain you know where to come. This non-invasive, non-medicated yet effective treatment can change your approach to mechanical pain as it did mine. Feel free to comment on this or call us if you have any questions, we would be happy to answer your questions and guide you through the road to recovery.
Sinju Thomas PT, DPT, OCS
CEO & Senior Physical Therapist
