Abstract

Low back pain is a common ailment that affects 60-80% of all individuals at some point
in their lifetime (Hammer, Degerfeldt, & Denison, 2007). While it presents as a major health
concern that often requires the intervention of various healthcare services, there has been an
increased emphasis on identifying the most effective treatment approach. Although rehabilitative
professionals are likely to use a variety of treatment modalities, it is unknown whether current
practitioners are familiar with and would even consider implementing one specific treatment: the
McKenzie Method. The purpose of this study was to examine the knowledge and perceptions
toward this specific movement therapy and its use in the rehabilitation setting. Thirty-nine
rehabilitative practitioners who have obtained a minimum of a Bachelors Degree in an Exercise
Science or related field and are in active clinical practice were recruited to participate in this
study. They completed a twenty-two question online survey about their knowledge and use of
the McKenzie Method in their clinical setting. Although 88.8% of subjects have heard of the
McKenzie Method, only 1 individual reported having McKenzie certification. 64.5% of subjects
rated the McKenzie Method as somewhat beneficial for treating low back pain, while 58% of
subjects considered the McKenzie Method more beneficial in the acute phase of low back pain
verses the chronic phase. 93.5% of subjects believe the McKenzie Method does serve as an
effective tool in the rehabilitation setting.