Activecare Physical Therapy
The McKenzie Method® of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy® (MDT) in Erie
Evidence-Based Pain Relief and Long-Term Recovery at Activecare Physical Therapy
Back or neck pain is just the start—how you respond is what shapes your recovery. Without a proven, structured approach, symptoms can linger or return. The McKenzie Method® empowers you with personalized movements and strategies that relieve pain, restore function, and prevent future flare-ups.
At Activecare Physical Therapy in Erie, PA, we offer the McKenzie Method® of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy® (MDT)—a globally recognized approach for assessing and treating back, neck, and extremity pain. MDT helps patients understand their condition and take an active role in recovery, often leading to faster and longer-lasting results.
What Is the McKenzie Method® (MDT)?
The McKenzie Method® is a specialized assessment and treatment system developed by New Zealand physiotherapist Robin McKenzie. It focuses on:
Mechanical assessment of symptoms
- Classification into clear diagnostic categories
- Movement-based treatment strategies
- Patient education and self-management
This method emphasizes restoring function and minimizing the need for ongoing therapy or medication.
Conditions Treated with MDT
Our MDT-trained therapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Lower back pain
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Sciatica and nerve-related symptoms
- Disc herniations and bulges
- Shoulder, hip, knee, and other joint pain
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Postural syndromes
Patsy Bennett
I have been at Activecare Physical Therapy over the last 3 years for a couple of issues. First for my hip, before surgery, then again after tendon repair. Later I went for therapy on my shoulder, once again, before surgery. Ehren was great; he was especially helpful with letting the doctor and insurance company know that therapy was not going to help the problem. As it was, I needed a complete new shoulder!
Ehren is very good at listening, and explaining the way things work. I have other issues that impact the therapy and what I can do, and he was always willing to find another exercise that would help without exacerbating my problems.
This last time (just “graduated” in mid-December 🙂 I also worked with Kendra who was always encouraging and innovative, too, pushing me just enough.
I hope (fingers crossed) I will not need therapy again, but if so, I will definitely be back at Activecare. I would recommend them for anyone.
Debra Weindorf
Fantastic Therapist, Julie. This is my third time in PT in a year since a fall that broke my arm and led to a shoulder replacement and she’s the first one to help with the pain. She’s also working on my jaw at the same time which was also injured in the fall. I can’t even compare her to the first therapy office I went to. It’s like night and day. I highly recommend Activecare and Therapist Julie.
If your pain responds to certain movements or positions, MDT may be the right approach for your recovery.
Why Choose Activecare Physical Therapy for MDT?
Certified MDT Expertise
Our physical therapists are trained and credentialed in the McKenzie Method®, offering a precise, individualized approach to care.
Efficient and Lasting Relief
Many patients experience improvement within just a few visits. MDT aims not just to relieve pain but to help you prevent it from returning.
Self-Treatment and Independence
We teach you how to manage your symptoms on your own, reducing reliance on passive treatments or repeat visits.
Targeted Diagnosis
No guesswork. The assessment allows us to categorize your condition accurately and guide you with the most effective treatment plan.
What to Expect at Your MDT Appointment
- During your initial evaluation, our therapist will:
Perform a detailed mechanical assessment to identify your pain patterns - Classify your condition (Derangement, Dysfunction, or Postural Syndrome)
- Begin treatment using specific exercises and movement strategies
Follow-up sessions involve monitoring your progress, adjusting your exercise plan, and ensuring long-term self-management.
Start Your Recovery Today
At Activecare Physical Therapy inErie, PA, we believe in empowering patients to take control of their recovery. If you’re looking for a clinically proven method that promotes active healing, the McKenzie Method® may be the solution you need.
Contact us today to schedule your evaluation and begin a personalized path to relief.
Location: Erie, Pennsylvania
Phone: (814) 864-4100
Online Scheduling: Book Online