Let's Get Methodical

I appreciate having a method of approaching the body when it comes to musculoskeletal problems. With regards to any problem, I have an order of investigation: the spine, local joints, tissues, and other. When it comes to an extremity, I always look at the related spinal segments. With extremity joints, I always look at active motion, passive motion, strength, and function. With regard to movement testing, I look at the sagittal plane first and then the frontal or transverse planes (except in rare cases). I use the least amount of force first and add force incrementally only as needed. There are many other examples of how the McKenzie method embodies a systematic approach.

The point here is that diagnosing and treating can be simplified according to the core principles. Care is not based on a hodgepodge of tests. For instance, if you only learned how to treat shoulders using the McKenzie method, you should be able to apply that to hips - and vice versa. The more you use the method, the more efficient you become at implementing it. -- Laura