The McKenzie method (Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy, MDT) is a classification-based concept for examining and treating musculoskeletal complaints, particularly of the spine. It was developed by the New Zealand physiotherapist Robin McKenzie.
At its centre is a systematic movement examination with repeated end-range movements to classify symptom patterns such as derangement, dysfunction or postural syndrome. Based on the response (centralisation or peripheralisation of symptoms), targeted self-exercises and posture and movement strategies are derived for the patient.