Effect of McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy on Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Case Study

Abstract

Background:
Chronic non-specific low back pain (CLBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that affects
body’s functional ability and quality of daily life. Many types of exercises are used , such as the
McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), are frequently used in its
management.
Objective:
To evaluate the effect of McKenzie exercises on pain severity, body’s functional disability, and
lumbar range of motion in a patient with chronic non-specific low back pain.
Methods:
A prospective single-subject case study was conducted on a 42-year-old male with a 14-month
history of chronic low back pain. Severity of pain, functional disability, and lumbar mobility
were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and
goniometric measurements at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. The intervention includes
specific, extension-based McKenzie exercises performed for a period of 12 weeks and postural
education was given.
Results:
After intervention, pain intensity decreased from 7/10 to 3/10 on the VAS. Functional disability
improved from 48% to 20% on the Oswestry Disability Index . Lumbar flexion improved from
40° to 50°, and lumbar extension improved from 10° to 15°. The patient also reported
improvement in daily activities.
Conclusion:
McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy exercises confirmed positive effects on pain
reduction, functional improvement, and lumbar mobility in this case . Due to the single-case
design, more studies with larger sample sizes are needed to support these findings.