Lab Techniques
Centralization and Peripheralization
These concepts are part of Robin McKenzie's system of classification and treatment for spinal problems. Centralization means pain moves up the extremity and toward the center of the spine. Even if the pain becomes more intense, as long as it moves up the extremity and toward the center of the spine it is centralizing. Peripheralization means pain moves laterally away from the center of the spine and/or down the extremity. McKenzie suggests that reduction of a disk derangement is accompanied by centralization, and worsening of a disk derangement is accompanied by peripheralization. Therefore, centralization is generally thought to be desirable, and peripheralization is not.
Contact Me
Voice: (570) 941-4314
Office: Old Loyola 203
Edmund M. Kosmahl, PT, EdD
Professor
Department of Physical Therapy
University of Scranton
800 Linden Street
Scranton, PA 18510
