In our clinic the primary approach for treating patients is the McKenzie Method of “Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy” (MDT). The MDT is an internationally recognized method of assessment and treatment for spinal and extremity pain developed by New Zealand Physiotherapist Robin McKenzie. It has been widely taught and used all over the world for more than 30 years.
MDT clinicians are trained to assess and diagnose all areas of the musculoskeletal system. That means that if a problem exists in or around the spine, joint or muscle, an MDT evaluation may be appropriate.
MDT is a philosophy of active patient involvement and education that is trusted and used by clinicians and patients all over the world for back, neck and extremity problems. This approach continues to be one of the most researched and evidence-based physical therapy approaches available.
A key feature is the initial assessment – a safe and reliable way to reach an accurate diagnosis and only then make the appropriate treatment plan. Understanding the patients before beginning to treat them is a paramount element of the MDT system. Expensive tests such as MRI’s are often unnecessary. The McKenzie method enables you to continue to get better independent of expensive equipment and medical interventions. Certified MDT clinicians can rapidly determine whether the method will be effective for each patient. This enables the McKenzie practitioners to make appropriate referrals to other practitioners in a timely manner when necessary.
In its truest sense, MDT is a comprehensive approach based on sound principles and fundamentals that, when fully understood and followed, is very successful.
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