McKenzie Spine Care
A well known Physiotherapist from New Zealand, Robin McKenzie, has developed a diagnostic and treatment method of spine care. His approach has centered on the Intervertebral Disc and its effects on the spine when altered. Based on the anatomy and physiology of the spine and its components; bone, disc, ligament, tendon and muscle tissues, the factor often involved in back pain is overstretching of the ligaments and surrounding soft tissues. Usually when tissues around the joint are overstretched it is the ligaments that first give rise to pain. When the ligament surrounding the intervertebral disc is injured it gives way to injury of the intervertebral disc. The posterior components of the disc allow a bulging to occur and pressures can build producing pain. It is when the bulge is large enough that it may impinge the spinal nerves and possibly cause symptoms into the legs. When the spine is flexed, or bent forward, a posterior direction of movement is placed on the inner portion of the disc. Over time with continued flexion this pressure builds up and creates a break down of fibrous tissue, outer portion in the disc, and a bulging occurs. To treat this scenario the motion is reversed and emphasis is placed on extension, or backward motion. This will create pressures in the opposite direction and eventually reverse the effects of pain production.
Information above provided from: Treat Your Own Back By Robin McKenzie copyright 1985
REDUCE > MAINTAIN > RESTORE > PROPHYLAXIS
The Spine
The spinal column is composed of several bones called vertebrae. The orientation of the vertebrae allows us to stand upright. Between the vertebrae are special cartilages referred to as discs that act as shock absorbers for forces through the spine. The vertebrae are made up with a large base in the front and a hole behind it. The alignment of this hole from the vertebrae, top to bottom, creates a canal for nerve tissue, more specifically the spinal cord. Also created on the sides of each vertebra when lined up is another canal for the individual nerves.
Functions of the Spine
The major functions of the spine are to create a flexible connection that protects the spinal cord and also provides a greater function in weight bearing.
Neutral Posture
This position helps to maintain proper alignment through the spine. In the upper spine a curve is slightly forward, then slightly backward through the middle and forward again in the lower spine.
Mechanical Pain
Pain of mechanical origin occurs when the joint between two bones has been placed in a position that overstretches tissue. This is true of all the joints of the body; spine included. Most low back pain is developed from prolonged stretching to tissues. This is very common and often a result of poor posture.
Common Causes of Back Pain
Postural Causes - poor sitting positions, poor working conditions, poor lifting techniques, poor standing positions, poor lying positions.
Lordosis
The slightly forward curve of the lower back is referred to as a Lordosis. Maintaining this lordosis will enhance spine function and minimize pain occurrences. To achieve a lordosis one would sit and slouch. Then overcorrect this slouched position to stretch in the opposite direction of the slouch. Continue this process 10 - 15 times and release only slightly in the overcorrected position; maintain this position (this will be a lordosis).
Sitting for Prolonged Periods
Most people find themselves sitting for a good portion of their day. When we eat breakfast, drive to work, sit at work, drive home, eat dinner, and watch TV, and so on. When sitting most people adopt a relaxed/poor sitting posture that maintains a stretch to spine tissues. This overstretch can lead to injury and pain.
Lifting Technique
Lifting things with your back rounded will enhance the pressures on the lower back. To minimize this undue stress the correct lifting technique should always be used. The correct lifting technique should include the following:
- Stand close to the load using a wide stance
- Accentuate lordosis
- Bend with your knees down to the load with a straight back
- Get a secure grip and maintain the load as close to you
- Lean back to stay in balance and lift the load by straightening the knees
- Take a steady lift; do not jerk
Lying and Resting
When people wake in the morning with pain it is likely this is a result of the sleeping surface or sleeping position. Two simple ways to reduce stress while sleeping is 1) sleep with a supportive roll under your waist (use a bath towel and roll lengthwise) and 2) Ensure that your mattress does not sag.
The McKenzie Institute
www.mckenziemdt.org
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