How is derangement syndrome classified according to the McKenzie system?

• A. Intermittent pain presentation
• B. Constant pain presentation
• C. Occasional pain presentation
• D. Variable pain presentation

Answer: (B)

In the McKenzie system of classification, derangement syndrome is recognized as a condition where there is internal disruption of a joint or soft tissue, leading to a change in the normal position of structures. This syndrome characteristically presents with constant pain. This means that the pain experienced by the patient is persistent and often does not significantly vary throughout the day or with different activities.

Constant pain indicates that the patient's functional capacity is compromised due to the ongoing presence of discomfort, and symptoms do not resolve quickly with rest or changes in position. This is a hallmark feature of derangement syndromes and aligns with the concept that the pain is linked to a mechanical block or displacement rather than being purely muscular or related to posture, which might present differently.

In contrast, intermittent pain presentations are associated with conditions where symptoms come and go, such as in other syndromes categorized by the McKenzie model, but they do not accurately reflect the nature of derangement syndrome.