Medical Strengthening Therapy –
when is it recommended?


There is clear evidence that Medical Strengthening Therapy can significantly improve the condition of up to 80% of patients with chronic back problems.

For the back and neck, we can also measure strength levels objectively. These measurements show that a reduction in symptoms is invariably accompanied by an increase in strength. Although pathologically-induced anatomical changes, e.g. prolapsed discs, arthritis or spondylolisthesis cannot be trained out of existence, an increase in the strength of surrounding muscles can significantly reduce pain and other symptoms.

Main indicators for Medical Strengthening Therapy are:

  • chronic pain: continuous pain for at least 3 months
  • chronic recurring pain: at least 2 acute episodes per year for at least 2 years
  • muscle insufficiency and imbalance that affects the entire axial skeleton
  • functional impairment (joint dysfunction), segmental instability
  • tension pain in muscles of the cervical spine
  • headaches, migraine, tinnitus
  • condition post surgery to cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine
  • condition post spinal injury
  • manifest osteoporosis and advanced osteoporosis with fracture tendency
  • condition post acceleration/deceleration injuries = 'whiplash injuries'
  • degenerative changes to the spine (osteochondrosis, spondylosis  spinal stenosis)
  • protruding and prolapsed discs where surgery is not essential
  • postural weakness/defect
    (e.g. scoliosis, segmental instability, spondylolisthesis, etc.)
  • rheumatic disorders
    (chronic polyarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, fibromyalgia etc.)

Medical Strengthening Therapy (MST) is medically prescribed only if indicated.

MST is contraindicated if patient is suffering from an inflammatory or neoplastic spinal disorder or acute spinal trauma. An individual assessment is required if patient has an internal disorder or post surgery.

We know from research and experience that MST can provide excellent and long-lasting improvements to a wide range of back problems. For further information see Studies.


Other questions: