The McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT)
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I took my first McKenzie class in 1990 and began using the principles to treat lower back and neck pain. I continued my study with the McKenzie institute and became credentialed in 2004. I used my education and experience over the past 28 years to treat a variety of neck and lower back problems. I recently attended the extremity course and am now able to apply the same principles of evaluation and treatment to extremity problems with quick success.
The McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), is a post-graduate training program that many Physical Therapists voluntarily elect to study. It was developed by world-renowned expert physiotherapist Robin McKenzie in the 1950s. The approach is a well-researched and exercise based. It uses a comprehensive and clinically reasoned evaluation of patients without the use of expensive diagnostic imaging (e.g. x-rays and MRIs). The treatment principles of the McKenzie Method promote the body’s potential to repair itself.
The McKenzie Institute post-graduate curriculum is a series of basic and advanced courses followed by a competency exam. Clinicians that pass the certification exam have proven that they have a satisfactory level of competency in the method and attain certified status.
I like the McKenzie Method because it is reliable and empowers patients to be in control of their own symptom management reducing dependency on medical intervention. It is intended for all musculoskeletal problems which include pain in the back, neck and extremities (i.e., shoulder, knee, ankle etc.), as well as issues associated with sciatica, sacroiliac joint pain, arthritis and degenerative disc disease.
If you are suffering from any such issues, then a MDT assessment may be right for you!
