McKenzie Method Physical Therapy for Musculoskeletal Pain
Our certified McKenzie therapists combine expertise with personalized care to address your musculoskeletal pain. We guide you through specialized exercises and movements, while empowering you with skills to manage your pain independently.
Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) also known as the Mckenzie Method is a specialized approach for treating different forms of musculoskeletal pain, including:
- Lower-back pain and sciatica
- Neck and upper-back pain
- Disc herniations or bulging discs
- Joint pain in the upper and lower extremities
- Recurrent or chronic musculoskeletal pain
At Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, our physical therapists certified in MDT will partner with you to identify movement patterns and postures that influence your pain — and provide you with strategies and techniques to reduce or eliminate your symptoms.
Our goal is to empower you to self-manage your condition, relieve your pain and prevent its recurrence — all with an eye toward enhancing your quality of life.
Schedule an Appointment
MDT physical therapy evaluations and treatment sessions are available on an outpatient basis at the following locations:
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, 355 East Erie, Chicago, IL 60611
- For more information or to book an appointment, call 312.238.1000 or fill out our online appointment request form.
- Adaptive Sports & Fitness Center, 541 North Fairbanks Court, Mezzanine Level, Chicago, IL 60611
- For more information or to book an appointment, call 312.238.5001 or fill out our online appointment request form.
Benefits of the McKenzie Method
The McKenzie Method offers numerous benefits to help those experiencing back or neck pain, sciatica, or painful joint conditions. This method:
- Is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing pain
- Focuses on self-treatment and empowerment to manage pain symptoms independently
- Aims to quickly identify movements that relieve pain
- Is effective for both acute and chronic conditions
- Is effective in reducing the need for injections or surgery
What to Expect at Your Appointment
When you come to us for treatment, you can expect to receive:
- A comprehensive evaluation of your spine and joints including a posture assessment, movement exam with pain response and a classification of your condition based on your pain patterns
- An individualized exercise program and techniques tailored to reduce your pain symptoms
- Lifestyle guidance and education to maintain your spinal health and prevent flare-ups and future pain episodes