What is Medical Strengthening Therapy?

Medical Strengthening Therapy (MST) is a diagnostic procedure and therapy capable of identifying functional deficits of the spine based on strict scientific criteria. It provides a standardised, scientifically based therapy that is both objective and success-oriented.

MST uses highly specialist computer-based test and therapy machines that for the first time make it possible to fully immobilise the pelvis. This is essential because only then can we prevent the stronger gluteal and leg muscles from working and train the small, deep muscles in the spine.

How is back strength measured?

In order to ensure that patients obtain maximum benefit from the therapy, we first need to identify their current muscle condition. To do this, we perform an isometric test. A dynamic test of muscle strength is not feasible because the accelerating and decelerating forces would distort the results.

Strength measurements provide objective evidence of therapy gains

An isometric analysis of muscle function is done before therapy is started and on completion. The computer uses the results to calculate a strength curve for the patient. This curve is then compared with norm data corrected for age, weight and gender.
This provides evidence of muscle deficits, imbalances, reductions in range of motion and strength levels. The comparison with norm data for healthy individuals allows us to evaluate patients and provides an objective measure that can be used to assess therapy gains.