By Aindrea (Andi) McHugh
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical attention. Back pain can be localized to the back but it can also radiate (travel) to the buttocks, legs, and even to the feet. Back pain can be sharp, intense, and achy or it can feel like numbness or pins and needles. For the most part low back pain is mechanical in nature, meaning that it is likely due to repetitive forces and stresses.
The McKenzie system is a type of classification and treatment for low back pain that was developed by physiotherapist Robin McKenzie in the 1950s. It consists of an assessment involving the patient performing repeated movements, which helps the clinician to determine the patient’s directional preference. The directional preference usually occurs in back extension (arching back) or flexion (bending forward to touch toes). Usually moving the spine in one direction aggravates things and causes pain, whereas moving in the opposite direction can provide symptom relief. Determining the positional preference through the initial assessment is the foundation for treatment.
Treatment consists of education and exercises, which are to be carried out regularly throughout the day. Success of the McKenzie treatment is reliant on the patient being an active participant (usually requiring exercises to be completed at least five times per day!). Treatment has the potential to facilitate the body’s natural healing powers through movement. After all, our spines are robust and resilient!
The McKenzie system is well researched and evidence based. Healthcare providers across the world have been trained in the McKenzie system. One of the wonderful benefits of the McKenzie system is that patients become experts of their own care, through posture changes and exercise implementation. The added bonus is that there is minimal need for ongoing follow-ups (so you can save your money!).
As there is a high likelihood that back pain will reoccur, this system is effective for teaching patients to self-manage with their exercises when a flare-up occurs. One of the many reasons we love this system of treatment! So if you are ready to take back control (literally and figuratively!), consider seeing a McKenzie-trained provider today.
For more information or to book an appointment call 705-380-3312 or visit the Surge Physiotherapy website. Surge Physiotherapy is located at 33 King William Street, Suite 204, in Huntsville. Please note that our office hours have changed to accommodate Stephanie’s maternity leave. New hours are: Monday and Wednesdays 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Fridays 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Email: info@surgephysio.ca.
Andi has been trained in Part A: the Lumbar Spine by the McKenzie Institute. She is passionate about helping you achieve your goals and get back to doing the things you love. Whether it is returning to running, lifting your grandkids, or recovering from surgery, Andi combines her multifaceted background in manual therapy, education, kinesiology and exercise rehabilitation to provide individualized treatment. She believes that movement is medicine and enjoys sharing this philosophy with her clients.
Andi is a Muskoka native who completed her Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto in 2017. She received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in 2010 and her Master of Education in 2012 from Auburn University Montgomery in Alabama where she was a member of the varsity soccer team. When she is not working in the clinic, Andi enjoys giving back to her community through volunteering and also enjoys running, playing soccer, snowboarding, and baking.
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