The McKenzie Method® of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy® (MDT) is an internationally acclaimed method of assessment and treatment for spinal and extremity pain developed by New Zealand Physiotherapist Robin McKenzie. It has been widely used all over the world for more than 30 years (The McKenzie Institute International).
Nowadays, MDT is widely used by many health care practitioners all over the world like physiotherapists, chiropractors, kinesiologists and MDs.
MDT is not just a treatment method, it is a comprehensive tool that includes four major steps: assessment, classification, treatment and prevention.
McKenzie Method Video
How does it work?
Unlike other exercises for treating back pain meant for muscle strengthening, stability and restoring range of motion, the McKenzie method exercises are meant to directly diminish or even eliminate the patients’ symptoms (May S et. al. 2008).
The therapist will determine which posture or exercise will be the best for your current symptoms. This posture and exercise could vary throughout the course of treatment.
Your therapist will explain to you how to manage your symptoms and when to alter your position and adjust based on your symptoms. In this method, you are the doctor of yourself, our main role is to guide and educate you, and then you can take matters into your hands.
We will also show you how to prevent an injury from happening again.
Still have pain? Need some answers? Give us a call or visit our physiotherapy clinic in Brampton and Oakville
The McKenzie Method, unlike traditional exercises for back pain, focuses on directly alleviating or eliminating symptoms rather than muscle strengthening. It tailors postures and exercises to each patient's symptoms and educates them on self-management. Patients are equipped to manage their discomfort effectively. This unique approach is at the core of McKenzie physiotherapy.
In the McKenzie Method, specific postures or exercises are determined based on the patient's current symptoms. A trained McKenzie physiotherapist assesses the patient's condition and tailors the treatment to their unique needs. The method helps patients to manage their symptoms effectively and make posture adjustments as needed, promoting self-care and recovery.
Individuals in Brampton and Oakville can access the McKenzie Method at Physio Village Clinics by scheduling an appointment with our trained McKenzie physiotherapists. We provide comprehensive assessments, tailored treatment plans, and education to empower patients to manage their symptoms effectively. Contact our physiotherapy clinic to start your journey to pain relief and management.
