Total Physio Physiotherapy


250 845 5953
info@totalphysio.ca

Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment (McKenzie)

Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment (MDT) is a philosophy of active patient involvement and education developed in New Zealand by Robin McKenzie. 

Most low back pain is "mechanical" in origin, meaning that an applied force caused the pain. A basic philosophy of the McKenzie theory is that the reverse force can abolish the pain and restore function.

At the first appointment a mechanical examination takes you through a series of movements and positions. Diagnosis is based on the level of pain and limitations that result.

Once diagnosed a series of individualised exercises are prescribed. The emphasis is on active patient involvement. The aim is to minimise the number of visits to the physiotherapy clinic.

Ultimately, most patients can successfully treat themselves when provided the necessary knowledge and tools. For patients with more difficult mechanical problems, our certified McKenzie physiotherapist can provide advanced hands-on techniques until the patient can self administer.

By learning how to self-treat the current problem, patients gain hands-on knowledge on how to minimize the risk of recurrence and to rapidly deal with recurrence if it occurs. The likelihood of problems persisting can more likely be prevented through self-maintenance.