McKenzie Method (MDT — Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy)
System for assessing and treating spinal pain developed by Robin McKenzie, based on syndrome classification and pain centralization exercises.
Presentation
The McKenzie method (officially MDT — Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy) was developed by Robin McKenzie (1931–2013), a New Zealand physiotherapist. His discovery was fortuitous: in 1956, he observed that a patient with low back pain had pain disappear after lying in lumbar extension. This led him to develop an assessment system based on repeated movements and their effects on symptoms.
Creator: Robin McKenzie (1931–2013), New Zealand
Main Indications
- Low back pain and lumbar radiculopathy (sciatica)
- Disc herniation with possible centralization
- Neck pain and cervical radiculopathy
- Mechanical thoracic pain
- Referred limb pain (without neurological deficit)
Contraindications
- Cauda equina syndrome
- Progressive neurological deficit
- Spinal tumor or infection
- Vertebral fracture
Medical Disclaimer
The information presented in this article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment prescription. If in doubt, always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare professional. The techniques described do not replace conventional medical treatment.