What Can Be Done for Bulging or Herniated Discs with the McKenzie Method?
The McKenzie method (also known as mechanical diagnosis and therapy, or MDT) is a way of diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal problems in the spine and extremities. It was first created in 1981 by Robin McKenzie (1931–2013), a physical therapist from New Zealand.
When using the McKenzie method to treat diseases of the spine that also have symptoms in the extremities, like bulging discs or herniated discs, an essential consideration is centralization. Centralization is the transfer of symptoms from extremities to parts of the body closer to the heart. The onset of centralization is a positive indicator that the issue is resolving. Peripheralization, on the other hand, is the migration of pain from the spine to the extremities and is generally a sign that the disease is worsening.
Process for the McKenzie Method
If you are experiencing pain from bulging or herniated discs, chiropractic care and the McKenzie method can offer relief. At your first visit to Smith Chiropractic, Dr. Ammon Jacobson will take a history of your symptoms and how they manifest themselves. After that, you will be asked to do particular motions and assume different postures several times. Based on your symptoms and the range of motion observed, Drs. Jacobson and Spackman will diagnose your condition.
The symptoms of the spine and limbs are divided into three classifications: derangement syndrome, dysfunction syndrome, and postural syndrome. There is also a category called "other" that accounts for fewer than 3% of cases (non-mechanical disorders in which MDT does not function). The McKenzie technique bases its treatment on the direction (flexion, extension, or lateral shift) of the spine.
Evidence for the McKenzie Method
While studies show that the McKenzie method is not better than other rehabilitation interventions for reducing pain and disability in patients with acute lower back pain, there is moderate to high-quality evidence that it is superior to other methods in reducing symptoms in patients with chronic lower back pain. In another recent study that compared the McKenzie method to manual therapy in the care of patients with persistent low back pain, the McKenzie method shows to be a beneficial treatment for reducing pain in the short term and improving function in the long term.
Book An Appointment for the McKenzie Method in Colorado Springs
Smith Chiropractic has been serving Colorado Springs since 1991, and Dr. Jacobson has been treating patients for 14 years. He is certified in the McKenzie method parts A & B. Along with his colleague Dr. Spackman, they are ready to help you find relief from pain from bulging discs or herniated discs.
Call (719) 390-5404 or schedule an appointment online today.
Posted In:
Back Pain Treatment
Low Back Pain Treatment
Bulging Disc Treatment
McKenzie Method
Herniated Discs
