McKenzie Method® (MDT)
Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy for spine and extremity pain, focused on self-treatment.
What is the McKenzie Method® of physical therapy?
The McKenzie Method® of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) is an assessment and treatment approach that uses repeated movements and sustained positions to classify spinal and joint pain. It emphasizes patient-led exercises, so you learn how to reduce your own symptoms and prevent recurrences.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Kingshott Cary, DPT
McKenzie Method®
The McKenzie Method® (Mechanical Diagnosis & Therapy®) is an evidence-based assessment and treatment approach designed to evaluate and manage spine and joint pain. Through a series of repeated movements and posture assessments, we identify how your symptoms respond to movement, allowing us to determine the most effective treatment strategy. This method emphasizes patient education and individualized exercises, empowering you to manage your symptoms, improve function, and achieve long-term relief with greater independence.
What to expect at Spinal Haven
Your first visit is a full one-on-one evaluation with Dr. Elizabeth Kingshott Cary. We combine the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) with the McKenzie Method® to understand how your body moves and what is driving your symptoms, then agree on a clear plan and timeline together.
Who is this for?
Active adults who want to get back to training, work, and everyday life — especially if previous care felt rushed or generic. We regularly see working professionals, active seniors and athletes & lifters.
Patients visit our Southfield clinic from Royal Oak, Clawson, Madison Heights, Birmingham, Berkley, Ferndale and Troy, and from across Metro Detroit. Get directions
Further reading
- The McKenzie Method® — The McKenzie Institute International
- Centralization as a prognostic indicator (peer-reviewed) — PubMed Central, U.S. National Library of Medicine