Common Questions About In-Person Assessments
FAQ for in-person McGill Assessment
What is a McGill Method-certified Practitioner?
A McGill Method Certified Practitioner is a professional and highly trained expert. They specialize in assisting clients in reducing the risk of disabling low back pain and injury, optimizing their health outcomes, and enhancing their performance. Their deep understanding of corrective/therapeutic and performance enhancement exercises, tailored to each client’s unique needs, ensures a comprehensive approach to your care. Their range of techniques to reduce pain further underscores their expertise.
Brian Carroll’s expertise is not just a claim but a testament to his unique opportunity to learn, coach, and see clients alongside Prof. McGill, the co-author of ‘Gift of Injury, ‘over the past decade-plus. This unparalleled experience has equipped him to teach courses and seminars worldwide, offering invaluable insights to aid others in their recovery from back injuries.
What does an in-person McGill assessment with Brian Carroll consist of?
Read what is included with an in-person McGill assessment here: https://www.powerrackstrength.com/mcgill-provider-florida-region/#in-person-assessment
Where does an in-person McGill assessment with Brian take place?
I live in Jacksonville, FL, and I have a custom private gym. Here, we test the postures, loads, movements, and positions that cause your pain and find ways to relieve and move around the pain. I have every implement, bar, rack, weight, machine, and apparatus for testing or athletic purposes.
How can I best prepare for the assessment to maximize my time?
After booking your appointment, I will contact you to discuss the details. As we have already built rapport through virtual consulting, I will handle any specific details regarding your case and send you an information packet. Additionally, I will email you a PDF to address all your questions about the assessment day.
Can I bring my coach, spouse, or significant other to the assessment?
Yes, in my opinion, this could be a game-changer. Those familiar with Gift of Injury know how much of a positive influence Ria, my wife, provided for my recovery. You can record specific aspects of the assessment and coaching, which are crucial for movement, exercise compliance, and execution.
How Long is an in-person McGill Assessment?
The assessment can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, with most planned for 3 hours. Due to the complex nature of the evaluation, I cannot provide an exact duration. I will strive to be professional, fair, and thorough without compromising the integrity of the assessment or my approach. While I can’t guarantee a comprehensive evaluation in just 1 hour, I will aim to be efficient when time and budget constraints are a concern. Please note that a two-hour payment is required upfront, and the remaining balance is due at the time of service.
Is Brian Carroll a Physical Therapist or Chiropractor?
As a McGill Certified Practitioner and retired massage therapist with over a decade of experience, I advocate for needy individuals. While I do not provide medical treatment, my mission is to help others avoid the mistakes I made in treating my injury and to inspire hope for those overlooked by the medical system. With my firsthand experience of overcoming a back injury (Gift of Injury), I aim to bridge the gap between real-world struggles and the medical approach. For more on my back pain journey, read about his journey HERE.
Should I go to the Dr. before seeing Brian for an assessment?
I understand your concern for your safety and well-being. It’s crucial that you first see a physician to rule out any severe conditions such as Cauda Equina Syndrome, cysts, or cancer that may require immediate medical attention. Please get an MRI before contacting me. Please consult your medical provider for more information. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey; seeking professional help is the best way to ensure your health and well-being.
How badly injured and hurting are Brian's clients?
I specialize in complex back pain and injury cases. My clients often come to me with severe pain and mobility issues, having exhausted other treatment options without success. I am confident in my ability to assist you with your situation, although it’s important to note that back pain and injury are multifaceted, and recovery cannot be guaranteed. Nevertheless, I will dedicate myself to providing you with the best care.
Does Brian work with non-athletes or average joes?
My clientele is diverse, encompassing both athletes and non-athletes, male and female. I have experience working with a wide range of individuals, from elderly individuals seeking to regain mobility for everyday activities to young athletes injured in sports. This demonstrates my ability to tailor my services to meet the specific needs of each person, regardless of their age, gender, or level of physical activity.
What is an example of someone needing an in-person assessment vs. a virtual consult?
Our process begins with a virtual consultation, where I gather numerous success stories through daily testimonials. Some cases require out-of-the-box problem-solving. The next step involves a comprehensive in-person McGill Method assessment. This thorough evaluation will benefit clients with complex spinal issues or those who have not found relief from prior interventions; in-person coaching and assessment are available for individuals who struggle with remote learning. Our initial virtual consult allows us to build rapport, understand your unique story, and ensure no red flags. Depending on the nature of your case, I may refer you elsewhere to ensure you receive the best possible care.
I recently had back surgery. Can Brian help me with rebuilding?
Yes, I work with various post-surgical and post-procedural clients, such as those who have undergone PRP and STEM cell procedures. They have had procedures ranging from Micro-Discectomy to Laminectomy, Fusions, and Spinal Decompression. These clients want to regain resilience without following a one-size-fits-all approach that has failed them in the past.
My Doctor wants to do back surgery. Should I get a second opinion?
Through my journey of seeking multiple opinions on surgery, I realized the power of knowledge and the importance of further education. As discussed in Gift of Injury and Back Mechanic, this knowledge can be life-changing. Some of my clients, who were initially offered surgery without exploring non-surgical alternatives, have found relief and regained their lives. In my experience, most back-pained clients do not need surgical intervention, and this realization has been a source of enlightenment for them. This is why further education is not just important, but paramount.
Back Pain Testimonials
I’m a police officer, and your book, Gift Of Injury, saved my life. I’m 42 now; I had lower back issues in my late 20s from heavy lifting and wrestling… I overcame that and always made warm-up, movement prep, stretching, etc, a big priority. Then, right around the time I hit 40, I had the standard L5 S1 back pain that took its toll on my training and daily life. I’m a police officer in our emergency service unit (SWAT/HEAVY RESCUE) and a dad of two young, very active, athletic boys, so the pain, lack of movement, and explosiveness became a total mind f@&k... All of the epidurals, movement research, and decompression didn’t work. I got a hold of your book, thoroughly read it, and practiced it all. It was life-changing. I have zero pain and can move, explode, squat/deadlift, and wrestle! Anyone currently with lower back pain or who doesn’t even want to go down that road of debilitating back issues should read and study this book. Any athlete or person on a regular fitness/strength training routine will benefit from this material. This book is the real deal, legit, easy to follow, and couldn’t be any more genuine coming from someone of your immense accomplishments. Thank you,
"When I got injured, I wanted to work with someone who has had a similar experience. Someone who would understand wanting not only pain relief but also recovery and better resilience after the injury. In less than nine months, I was able almost to eliminate all pain and discomfort in regular life. I'm steadily progressing in training, and my back is getting stronger. My recovery has gone very well under Brian's guidance. Brian listens to feedback and applies his knowledge of my unique and specific injury and life. I would recommend Brian to anyone looking for help with back pain, especially those who want to be proactive in their recovery."
“Just as the pandemic hit, a lingering back injury hit an all-time high and there was really no escaping it. I purchased “Gift of Injury” and read the entire thing cover to cover in three days. I soon connected with Brian for a consult/assessment and he immediately offered 1:1 support to dive into my specific injury and determine my pain generators. I was extremely grateful for his assessment, help, advice, and guidance during this tough time in my recovery. Despite the time differences and residing in different countries, he stayed in consistent communication with me and asked for frequent updates to ensure I was staying on the right track. At the start of our work together, we started over only walking and doing the big 3, then soon progressed to carries, then goblet squats with a 14kg kettlebell; fast forward a few months – just last weekend I was able to hit near max lifts once again, but PAIN-FREE and with proper lifting mechanics and form cues I learned from Brian while starting over. I am grateful for the learnings I’ve taken from Brian, you can tell his passion is to help others. By bringing his own experiences to his work makes him even more of a unique coach.”
I am on the road back to thriving in life thanks to Brian. After a BJJ incident, I tried everything on my own to fix the issue. I tried for months with NO progress. I was defeated and worried I would never regain my normal life again. I was contemplating giving up BJJ and lifting. I couldn’t squat or deadlift with an empty barbell. Then enters Brian. He has taken the time to LISTEN to my concerns and has prescribed an ever changing plan that has continue to DELIVER results. This journey is not over but I now have hope for a life where I can continue doing the things I love. By listening to Brian’s advice and not deviating from the plan, I am seeing the fruits of my labor. Brian continues to help me become more resilient, not only with my low back but mentally as well. If you are struggling with a low back issue that is interfering with you living a life where you can thrive. Look no further than Brian for a solution that will give you your power back.
I reached out to Brian in August of 2021 after I went through Army Special Forces Assessment and Selection. My MRI showed a massive herniation between L4-L5, disc degeneration along the whole lumbar spine, with a couple of other less dramatic herniations as you moved up the spine. I had been in pain for years and tried every avenue, including acupuncture, dry needling, chiropractic, massage therapy, medication, traction tables, rest, etc. After Selection, I was going on four months of sleeping 1 hour a night at best while on my hands and knees because that was the only position I didn't have shooting pain down my leg. I was at an all-time low. I reached out to Brian to get his take on what my MRIs and symptoms might mean for my future. I trusted his knowledge and expertise due to following him and Dr. Stu McGill for years while I was powerlifting. He was brutally honest, a breath of fresh air compared to the surgeons I had seen. Unfortunately, my herniation was so bad that I decided to have the surgery, knowing it could end my career in the military. I could take no chances. Post-surgery, I took full advantage of working with Brian. The personalization of his protocol allowed me to finish the rest of the Q course to become a Green Beret. During the course, I was put through a myriad of events that are not in the slightest bit safe for a healthy back, let alone my back that was just operated on. However, Brian was with me every step of the way, adapting our program to meet the needs of the military and my personal goals. This resulted in me exceeding every maximum standard put in place before me. Thanks to his advice and support, I am now a Green Beret with a bright future. He has not only been a great coach but also a great mentor and friend. You won't find another guy like this.
In 2018, I suffered a disc herniation in my lower back, and since then, I have not been able to squat to a functional level. Despite eventually becoming pain-free, working around my farm and property was difficult. I would try to regain my squat depth cautiously but continually induce minor flare-ups and stop pushing. Being a physical therapist, this outcome became frustrating and disheartening. But within 10 minutes of working with Brian, he brought my squat to below 90*, with no pain or the usual strain. I had no idea my hips could do this without my back paying the price. His precise cues and knowledge of how to adjust made this seem effortless. Brian is a master at coaxing out your true potential, all while ensuring you protect your spine. This is invaluable. Thank you, Brian!
I came to Brian in 2021 because every Doctor I went to told me I was done lifting and would never be out of pain. I heard of McGill and Carroll, so I connected with Brian Carroll virtually first, then I flew from Austin, Texas, to see him for a 3-hour assessment in Jacksonville, Fl. Fast forward 1.5 years later, and I am pain-free and now a WBFF Bikini Pro. I appreciate your help, Brian! Thank you for your coaching, guidance and positivity.
Brian is the best of the best. My back was so bad I was legitimately suicidal. I never thought I’d be able to tie my shoes without pain let alone lift a barbell again. I’ve since surpassed my best deadlift by 40+ lbs with a 777 lb deadlift. I’ve referred many people to Brian’s books and knowledge he’s the best
I can’t say enough great things about Brian, his book and the methods he used. My back pain was terrible. I t was so bad I had to brace myself standing at times, the radiating pain was terrible. I resigned to live with it until I heard about Brian’s back issues. It made me think that “hey this might be possible without surgery” and it was! I am pain free and followed exactly what Brian told me. I cannot thank him enough nor recommend his methods and him enough. If you are in pain. Seek Brian out and read his books!
Brian's Training and Facilities are Top Notch. Back injury? Not a problem .. Brian will show you how to strengthen your back to help Injuries heal and teach you how not to keep injuring your back.. Love the CBD also! It's literally the only CBD that has worked on my body .
I had been dealing with back issues for years. I would push through activities and deal with pain for days/weeks after. I had a lower herniated disk from sports activities and routinely reinjured that disk from pour movements and posture. After consulting with Brian I was made aware of the things I was doing wrong. Through reading his book "The Gift of Injury" as well as Dr.McGill's book I learned a great deal of how the spine truly works. I would highly recommend reading these books as they will clearly show you the proper path to recovery and regaining the use of your back once again. After reading the books you should make an appointment with Brian for an evaluation where he will give direct instruction and a plan to build your core to a point that you will no longer deal with the pain you once did. All it will take is some hard work and discipline to undo all the undisciplined posture/movements that once allowed you to constantly injure your spine.
I came to Brian about a compression fracture I got on my L3 in late February. He helped me to get on the right track with recovery but the biggest thing was hearing from a powerlifter that had been through this before to stay away from the gym even if I thought I could do a few exercises. Not just hearing it from the doctor. Brian got me on the right track using the principles of the McGill method and I am experiencing the benefits of that now. I will continue to work with Brian and recommend any powerlifter, strongman, Olympic lifter, etc. that has a back break to do the same.
I reached out to Brian after having two herniated disks in my back and being in constant pain. I had been to doctors and physical therapists but my pain never fully went away. After the doctor told me I would never lift heavy again I was in a bad place mentally and decided to reach out to Brian. From the beginning Brian was positive and assuring that he could not only get rid of my pain but could help get me back to lifting. He did a great job of laying out what to expect and what would be expected of me. His guidance was clear and concise and he was always available if questions or problems arose. After six months Brian had me completely out of pain and was helping me work towards gaining back my strength. He was especially great to work with during this time as he clearly explained what was changing and what I still needed to pay attention to in regards to back pain returning. Fast forward a year post injury and I was out of pain and had a new PR on all of my lifts. Through Brian's coaching and help my lifts significantly improved beyond where they were pre injury. Deadlift: 50 pound PR Squat: 60 pound PR Bench: 30 pound PR I can't recommend Brian enough, his help is worth every penny.
I had a McGill Assessment done after years of researching/reading/listening as much as I could about the McGill Method. I can only say, it was everything as expected and even more! After years of back pain, I never felt like I had real direction in my life on truly getting better. Nine months later, I've been able to PREVENT flairs up from coming on! It truly has been a life changing experience for me. If you EVER are feeling hopeless with any back pain, I can't recommend enough going to see Brian. I've recently started a business to pursue my true passion...that wouldn't be possible if I never saw him. Grateful to have my life and my body back!
It was about a year ago on a cold morning when my back pain started to go off the rails after "tweaking" my back on a heavy set of squats. I was frustrated and could not understand what I had been doing wrong so I reached out to Brian. I was familiar with his books and the work he had done with Dr. Stuart McGill and I knew I needed a professional's guidance. Brian and I had a few virtual sessions where he outlined a good plan forward to get out of pain. Once the pain had mostly subsided I decided to have an in-person session with Brian where he gave me a full assessment and outlined a plan for rebuilding what I had broken. I've not had a relapse in back pain since, and I owe it all to Brian's coaching and guidance. If you're considering reaching out to him, just do it. You won't regret it!
I’ve dealt with chronic back pain for over 10 years. I tried literally everything short of surgery and injections, but failed to find any long term solutions that worked for me. One session with Brian legitimately changed my life. He educated me on micromovements and was able to quickly observe bad movements I was doing. Then he showed me good alternative movements that could have a major impact on daily pain management. The handful of simple daily exercises he taught me strengthened my core in a balanced way that quickly reduced my chronic pain. One year later I'm happy to report that my chronic pain has been virtually eliminated and I'm back to playing sports and enjoying activities that I haven't been able to do for a decade. Brian is the real deal. Thank you Brian!!
I've had of and on low back issues since 2000, and lived in a prison of pain almost daily since 2015. I was on a cane to walk in 2017. I just assumed I'd always be in pain until I died. I took steroid/spine shots for a few years until they quit working. 2016-21 time frame. Degenerative disks, frayed disks, bulges etc. I was in the airborne infantry 2000-03, then a chopper pilot later 2010-15. After watching McGill and Brian Carol, and reading some, I stopped stretching, started the McGill big 3, and other simple exercise and within 72hrs I felt like a different human! The pain was almost GONE. I have more improvement from following your lead, and Reading McGill work than ever before. I'm FINALLY learning what I need to do at 40+ yrs into this fitness game. Can you imagine.. I can't thank you enough. I'm a life long boxer, athlete, high school powerlifter, footballer, and military man. And it's been a long time since I felt this healthy. It's obvious that this is the path I need to take at this point in my life. Thank you,
I had been experiencing chronic back pain for 4+ years. Before I reached out to Brian I was feeling pretty hopeless. Chronic pain will do that to you. Brian and Stuart McGill’s books were useful in helping me to understand what caused my injury and what was continuing to cause my pain, but when I started to work with Brian that’s when I really started to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I worked with Brian for about 6 months. During that time he helped me to identify my pain triggers, my unique pelvic position, and we built a rehab plan that helped me to change my movement, address my pain trigger and get out of pain. If you are considering back surgery, or struggling with back pain and don’t know what to do, before you go under the knife call Brian.
In 2019, after already having one disc bulge, I bulged another during a warmup deadlift and collapsed to the floor in horrible pain. For a few days I couldn’t hardly walk and during that time, ordered The Gift of Injury. I read the book over a week or so and began my rehab. To this day, the McGill big 3 is part of my routine almost every day. With the knowledge gained from the book, chatting with Brian and the rehab, I competed in my first full power meet last weekend. There, I set broke 5 state records and plan on going for more. My journey is far from finished and a lot of it is because of Brian and his story. Thank you Brian and Dr. McGill.
Started with Brian about 3 weeks ago. Went and visited him for in person training last week to check form on my lifts. Brian was super welcoming from the time I arrived. He took me through his recommended warmups and we made some changes on my form for squat, bench and deadlifts. Great experience, I would highly recommend to anybody on the fence. I can’t say enough good things about my experience so far with Brian. *Edit* I’ve been with Brian for a while now and my back couldn’t be better. Patience and consistency is key. Brian is honest, straightforward and genuine. Trust the process and get started asap!
After getting a back assessment with a McGill clinician, I wanted to get back to the activities I enjoy but didn't know how to work my way there. I have been working with Brian for a few months now and I overcame the emotional and physical hurdles of rehab. Brian is an elite athlete to the service of the common people and he has a lot to teach, as long as one be realistic with their goals and put some work in it. Personally, my goal was to gain longevity and build resilience to be able to run, bike and workout a few times a week. Thanks to Brian, I knew this was attainable and we found a safe strategy to get there. It is particularly impressive that he could workshop exercises given that we only have worked online. I believe that everyone - not just powerlifters - should incorporate Brian's tailored method in their daily life (instead of blindly trying general exercise/stretch program).
I’ve followed Brian for many years throughout his weightlifting career. I always appreciated how humble he is despite everything he’s achieved. After suffering a minor back injury myself, I figured I’d give The Gift of Injury a shot. My goal has always been to keep my body injury-free so I can lift weights until the end. And if a world champion powerlifter could heal his massive injury and go on to set more records, there must be something to it. After reading the book (and re-reading many passages), watching Brian’s videos, and working the McGill method, I’ve been pain-free for a couple of years. The insight here has completely changed how I view training, injury, and recovery. Not an easy feat after 28 years of lifting weights! But I will continue to use these concepts for many years to come.
As a competitive golfer you wouldn’t think to see a powerlifting coach for help with your back. I’m a big believer in Stuart McGills methods. And like Brian will tell you he sees people when all else fails. A chiropractor hurt me and a PT made it worse. I had been doing the MCGill big 3 for a month with no success but again like Dr McGill says the cure for one may be poison for another. I met with Brian initially via zoom then in person. Within 4 days I went from only getting 3 hrs of sleep and figuring golf was over to almost no pain! It’s now 3 weeks since our first call and I hit golf balls with no pain! Brian is worth the drive and the money. Don’t wait!
Brian is a master of his craft. My L5-S1 was trashed and I had immense back pain. He showed me proper techniques to strengthen my core, which has helped a lot. He also showed me proper ways to pick up and lift heavy items without putting unnecessary strain on my back. I also incorporated his CBD products which help alleviate symptoms when my back is aching. I used to use BIO FREEZE but Brian’s CBD Cryo Freeze is far superior and has many more benefits. I HIGHLY recommend contacting Brian if you want to learn proper lifting techniques, have back issues or are interested in his products. He is passionate about helping people with back problems and will ensure that you start a healthy and pain free path to recovery.
Brian’s coaching will be a game changer in your life. First off, I will say that anyone who chooses Brian will not only come away with more tools to take take on their injury, but they will also just be a wiser person in general about their physical health. As Brian says “I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t tell you this.” He truly just wants to help and pass in his knowledge. He will give you the tools to take control of your pain and to start healing. As someone who had been to countless physical therapists and pain management clinics, Brian was the only one who truly helped me and showed me that there was hope for the future. Thanks Brian!
I have been working with Brian for a few months now and his methods get the job done. I have worked with a physical therapist from a large facility before and my work with Brian has given me far better and more sustainable results. Brian is passionate in the field and offers tremendous value. I would highly recommend his training to anyone that deals with back pain.
Ive been working with Brian on my back since Sept 2022. Ive got from stabbing pain with small micro movements to be substantially more resilient and almost pain free. I'm confident Brian and I will get there. I would highly recommend Brian for his knowledge and demeanor. Also love his CBD. I do the cinnamon at night during stressful weeks. Makes a ton of difference. Thanks Brian.
I came to see Brian because of a back injury I've had for over 10 years! After all this time I've never had anyone show me or help me the way he did after only a 4-hour McGill method evaluation. I am early on in working with him, but I am certain if anyone can help fix my spine (or lose the pain) it's Brian. I highly recommend to anyone struggling with back pain.
I have been working with Brian for a few months now and his methods get the job done. I have worked with a physical therapist from a large facility before and my work with Brian has given me far better and more sustainable results. Brian is passionate in the field and offers tremendous value. I would highly recommend his training to anyone that deals with back pain.
After dealing with back pain off and on for years, I was able to make a couple trips to see Brian for an assessment and some movement coaching. In just a couple short sessions, Brian was able to show me how to properly perform certain exercises and talked me through how to approach rehab and training. In a short time I was pain free and was able to begin progressing my lifts. That was a couple years ago and I'm still pain free, moving better, and able to train harder than ever. Additionally, Brian is a great communicator and a pleasure to work with.
