It’s a fact that up to 72% of patients who have had lower back pain still experience pain a year later… whose fault is it?

Here’s the latest news regarding the McKenzie Method (“MDT”) for reducing back pain. The McKenzie Method is now widely considered to be the superior approach in terms of physical assessment.

Why? Believe it or not, after 30 years of research, we have irrefutable evidence that:

  1. Expensive imaging procedures are not required for the majority of lower back pain cases. These cases can be assessed in less than 30 minutes by a physiotherapist practicing the McKenzie Method.
  2. More than 80% of lower back pain complaints show centralization (positive “MDT” responses).
  3. 70% of severe cases and 49% of chronic lower back pain cases have positive responses following the use of the McKenzie Method and can avoid unnecessary interventions (including costly tests like MRIs), while non-centralizers (negative responses) can be immediately referred for follow-up to determine the severity of the issue.

Furthermore (and perhaps most importantly for the patient), “Immediate responders can learn the necessary physiotherapy exercises to treat themselves, as well as techniques related to their posture for their recovery, thereby reducing their use of our overloaded healthcare system.”

Author

  • We are physiotherapists passionate about movement and rehabilitation, with a clear goal: helping people better understand their pain and return to an active, unrestricted life.

    Through our practice and content, we share practical, science-based approaches to prevent injuries, relieve pain, and sustainably improve mobility. We believe that well-informed patients make better decisions and achieve better outcomes.

    Richard Bouzaglou, B.Sc. PT

    Physiotherapist | Co-Founder

    An experienced professional, Richard is the co-founder of the AMS Medical and Rehabilitation Center, where he has played a key role since 2008. With a background in sports medicine and physiotherapy, he has developed strong clinical expertise, particularly working with elite athletes.

    His practice is based on a comprehensive approach that integrates advanced manual therapy, functional rehabilitation, and personalized care. Committed to continuous education and mentoring students, he is known for his clinical rigor and his ability to build lasting, trust-based relationships with his patients.

    Moshe Vazana

    Physiotherapist

    With over 15 years of experience, Moshe is recognized for his precise, evidence-based approach. A physiotherapy graduate with advanced training in several methodologies, including the McKenzie Method (MDT) and the Mulligan Concept, he specializes in treating musculoskeletal and spinal conditions.

    His international background and commitment to excellence enable him to provide care that is tailored, effective, and sustainable. Passionate about knowledge sharing, he is also actively involved in training the next generation of physiotherapy professionals.