Back & Neck pain and Headaches

We make use of several techniques to assist patients with back and neck pain, and headaches. We use manual therapy, which include various evidence-based methods and concepts. We follow the McKenzie treatment protocols, use manual therapy, including a combination of movement techniques, and manipulations.

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What is Manual Therapy?

Manual therapy is an advanced specialised hands-on approach used by physiotherapists for the diagnosis and treatment of neuro-musculoskeletal (NMS), spinal and peripheral joint disorders. Manual therapy aims to restore range of motion and facilitate healing by promoting blood flow and soft tissue remodelling. We use the following techniques: The McKenzie Method, The Mulligan Concept, The Maitland Concept and Manipulation.

 

The McKenzie Method

The McKenzie Method is an approach to the assessment and treatment of back and neck pain as well as extremity problems. This well-known technique uses repeated direction-specific exercises to restore movement and decrease pain. More information on the McKenzie Method can be found at www.mckenziemdt.org.

 

The Mulligan Concept

The Mulligan Concept uses accessory joint mobilisation glides with active movements to restore the positional faults in joints. This technique has proven to be effective with back and neck pain as well as other joint problems like wrist, elbow, shoulder, ankle, knee, and hip pain. The Mulligan Concept encourages pain free movements that makes this technique extremely safe to do at home. 

 

The Maitland Concept

The Maitland Concept is a great tool that physiotherapists use to assess and treat the spine and other joints. This treatment focuses on passive and accessory mobilisation movements of the joints to treat stiffness and pain. The type of mobilisation movement depends on the severity, irritability, and nature of the injury.

 

Manipulation

Joint manipulation forms part of the Maitland Concept. Manipulation is a high-velocity low amplitude therapeutic movement within or at end of range that is done to the patient’s spine. Patients will often hear a popping or cracking sound when there is a quickly controlled force applied to the joint. This type of treatment will only be done when absolutely necessary and will not be done on a routine basis.