What is the McKenzie Method?
Also known as Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), the McKenzie Method is a philosophy of active patient involvement and education that is trusted and used by practitioners and patients all over the world for back, neck, and extremity problems. An evidence-based approach, the key distinction of MDT is its initial assessment component — a safe and reliable means to accurately reach a diagnosis and only then make the appropriate treatment plan. Certified McKenzie clinicians have valid indicators to know right away whether — and uniquely how — the method will work for each patient.
The Right Road to Restore Function
For successful treatment, one must first be effectively evaluated. Pain is a symptom — not a diagnosis. Assessment is the first step!
The evidence has shown that the initial McKenzie assessment procedures performed by competent MDT clinicians are as reliable as costly diagnostic imaging (i.e., X-rays, MRIs) to determine the source of the problem and quickly identify those who will or will not respond to the treatment principles of MDT.
Through a series of repeated movements and positions, certified MDT practitioners assess two things as a result of these movements — symptomatic and mechanical response. Patterns of response can be determined for what makes symptoms better or worse. Patients are classified accordingly and an effective set of exercises is established based on a “directional preference.” Typically this is achieved in only 3 -5 visits!
Proven goals of McKenzie MDT are to:
Promote the body’s potential to heal itself without medication, heat, cold, ultrasound, needles, surgery or endless visits to the clinic.
