McKenzie physiotherapy

The McKenzie physiotherapy method is a specialized examination and treatment system for spinal problems, which is one of the most widely used spinal treatment methods worldwide. The method is a system based on active movement therapy (physiotherapy) that emphasizes exercises that can be performed independently by the patient. With these exercises, the patient is able to influence their pain and the outcome of the problem themselves. The therapy is personalized and tailored to individual problems and patient expectations to ensure the most effective treatment.

How is the McKenzie method structured?

The method is a system based on active movement therapy (physiotherapy) that emphasizes exercises that can be performed independently by the patient. With the learned exercises, the patient is able to control their pain and the outcome of the problem themselves. The patient is therefore not a passive subject of the treatments, but actively participates in them. The easy-to-learn physiotherapy exercises for home use and ergonomic advice are integral parts of the therapy and greatly contribute to its success and recovery. With proper application of the McKenzie method, recurrence of the problem can be prevented and often surgical intervention as well.

What does McKenzie physiotherapy consist of?

The first session begins with a thorough musculoskeletal examination by the therapist, called a physical assessment, during which the cause of the pain is revealed. During the assessment, the patient repeats specific movements and body positions while observing the effect on the pain. Based on this, the most effective personalized treatment program can be developed.

What is the essence of the McKenzie method?

The method was developed by Robin McKenzie, a New Zealand physiotherapist, and is currently successfully applied in 40 countries worldwide. The Szevermed Musculoskeletal Center is Hungary’s McKenzie clinic. Our lead physiotherapist, Éva Pető, is also the organizer of McKenzie courses in Hungary.

For what problems is McKenzie physiotherapy recommended?

Primarily for disc herniation and acute spinal pain (at cervical, thoracic, and lumbar levels), this is the first movement program to be applied in treatment and management.

The therapy also addresses disc problems (disc protrusion, disc prolapse, disc herniation), postural problems of the spine, and problems of the extremity joints.