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Integrated Rehabilitation Services, in business for over 16 years, has a team of physical therapists who use Cyriax-based evaluation and treatment techniques. James Cyriax, an English surgeon, was known as the Father of Orthopaedic Medicine. He had many students who are well-known in the physical therapy industry, including Brian Mulligan, Geoffrey Maitland and Robin McKenzie.
The McKenzie Method® is a system of pain management in which patients learn how to control their symptoms. Americo Rodrigues, PT, OCS, Cert. MDT, CMP, CIDN at Integrated Rehab has been a McKenzie practitioner for nearly 20 years. Yet, he refers to himself as a teacher; Americo teaches his patients how to treat their mechanical problems throughout the day.
How does a physical therapist become a certified McKenzie practitioner?
The Certification Process
In his early career, Americo treated all conditions, but was always drawn to the spine. In 1997, his colleague Eric Stearns recommended that he take a McKenzie course. Americo immediately fell in love with the principles of the McKenzie Method®; being able to classify pain and provide almost instant relief with a simple repositioning of the body. He decided to become certified and, over the next two years, completed the process. Back then, there were four parts:
- Part A: 4 days
- Part B: 3 days
- Part C: 3 days
- Part D: 4 days
Between each part, you were required to go off on your own and practice for several months before going to the next level. On the 15th day of this process, the students took an all-day certification test including a practicum, static lab and a multiple-choice test. To receive a Diploma Certificate, students must attend a 360-hour clinical residency training program. At the time, Americo had a young family that he wanted to stay close to, so he did not pursue more than his Credentialing Certificate. Today, the McKenzie Institute requires practitioners to renew their credentials and continue education to be listed as an active member.
Is the McKenzie Method® Right for You?
The McKenzie Method® uses different evaluation techniques to classify a patient’s pain and determine the best course of treatment. It is effective for neck, low back and other extremity problems caused by a derangement, dysfunction or postural syndrome. One of the many benefits of the McKenzie Method® is that patients can manage their own pain and see immediate results after receiving education from a certified practitioner.
Do you want to get better, faster? Contact us today to learn more about the McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis® and Therapy™.