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The McKenzie Method

The Mckenzie method, or mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT), is a comprehensive system of assessment, diagnosis and treatment for the spine.

Through the McKenzie method, a clinician evaluates a patient by taking a thorough history and performing a mechanical examination.  This comprehensive and logical process is unique to the McKenzie method and allows the clinician to evaluate the patient’s problem quickly and effectively.  The evaluation includes observing the patient’s response to repeated, end-range spinal movements or sustained positions in order to provide a mechanical diagnosis.

Once the mechanical diagnosis has been made, a series of individualized exercises is prescribed.  The patient must take an active role in his or her own recovery, with the emphasis being on guided self treatment.    MDT credits the patient’s ability to learn the principles and be in control of their own symptom management, reducing their dependency on medical intervention and gaining life-long pain management and preventative skills.  For patients with more difficult mechanical problems, a certified McKenzie practitioner can provide advanced spinal mobilizations or manipulations until the patient can self manage.

The aim of the McKenzie method is to: