On September 15, 2018, Dr. Donahue of Chicago Spine + Sports successfully passed the credentialing exam for McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy. 

Dr. Donahue joins Dr. Krebs and Dr. Krefman as being among a small number of Chiropractic Physicians who have been credentialed by the McKenzie Institute.

Chicago Spine and Sports is now the first Chiropractic Clinic in the Chicagoland area to have three credentialed McKenzie providers.

McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) is a systematic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of spinal-related conditions.  Research has shown the initial McKenzie assessment procedures to be as reliable as costly diagnostic imaging (i.e., x-rays, MRIs) to determine the source of the problem and quickly identify responders and non-responders.  Unique to the McKenzie Method is a comprehensive and logical step-by-step process to evaluate the patient's problem quickly. This mechanical examination can "classify" most patient conditions by the pain or limitation level resulting from certain movements or positions. A McKenzie assessment can eliminate the need for expensive and invasive procedures. McKenzie treatment prescribes a series of individualized exercises. The emphasis is on active patient involvement, which not only minimizes the number of visits to the clinic but also empowers the patient in their own healing process.

Most patients can successfully treat themselves when provided with the necessary knowledge and tools. For patients with more difficult mechanical problems, a hands-on approach is needed. By learning how to self-treat the current issue, patients gain hands-on knowledge on how to minimize the risk of recurrence and to deal with a recurrence if it occurs rapidly. The likelihood of problems persisting can more likely be prevented through self-maintenance.

McKenzie therapy, also known as the McKenzie Method or Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), is a type of physical therapy primarily used to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the spine. Developed by New Zealand physical therapist Robin McKenzie in the 1960s, this method emphasizes patient involvement and education.

Key Components of McKenzie Therapy:

1. Assessment:

   • A thorough evaluation to identify the source and nature of the pain. This includes specific movements and positions to determine which actions alleviate or exacerbate symptoms.

2. Treatment:

   • Exercises: Patients are taught specific exercises that they can perform at home to relieve pain and improve function. These exercises are designed to centralize pain, moving it away from the extremities towards the spine.

   • Posture Correction: Guidance on maintaining proper posture to prevent recurrence of pain and improve overall spinal health.

3. Prevention:

   • Educating patients on how to avoid movements and positions that might trigger pain, thus empowering them to manage their condition independently.

Benefits of McKenzie Therapy:

• Non-invasive: Does not require surgery or medication.

• Patient Empowerment: Emphasizes self-management and independence.

• Customizable: Tailored to each individual’s specific condition and response to exercises.

Common Conditions Treated:

• Low back pain

• Neck pain

• Sciatica

• Herniated discs

• Arthritis

• Mechanical back pain