Published: October 18, 2021
CHARLOTTE, MI – Sparrow Eaton Hospital physical therapist Joshua Schnell, PT, DPT, recently earned certification to practice the McKenzie Method® of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy, an evidence-based program to eliminate back, neck and extremity pain in fewer visits than traditional treatment.
Physical therapists must complete a series of advanced postgraduate courses to become certified practitioners of the program. The key distinction is its initial assessment of patients, a safe and reliable means to accurately reach a diagnosis that will guide an appropriate treatment plan. Rarely are expensive tests required as certified MDT clinicians know right away whether — and how — the exercise treatment will work for each patient.
“This is an exciting opportunity to be able to bring to our region and add to the overall toolbox and variability we offer at AL!VE,” said Kim Dickinson, Director of AL!VE Clinical Services.
Schnell is a graduate of University of Michigan-Flint where he received his doctorate in physical therapy. He works full-time in EMPOWER, which encompasses Sparrow Eaton Hospital’s rehabilitation services at AL!VE. Schnell not only specializes in post-surgical rehabilitation but now also orthopedic conditions.
Joshua Schnell, PT, DPT
“This technique often sees rapid, or in some cases, instant results with patients. Every situation is different but the quick relief it brings is so gratifying to watch,” Schnell said.
Patients should speak with their doctor about a referral to EMPOWER at AL!VE or call 517.541.5800, opt. 2, to set up an appointment for an MDT assessment.
EMPOWER serves patients from early morning through evening, Monday through Friday. For more information on rehabilitation, or any clinical services at AL!VE, call 517.541.5800, option 2 or visit myalive.com.
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Sparrow is Mid-Michigan’s premier healthcare organization and includes hospitals in Lansing, Charlotte, St. Johns, Ionia and Carson City as well as Physicians Health Plan, Sparrow Care Network, Sparrow Medical Group, the Michigan Athletic Club, and AL!VE. Sparrow is affiliated with Michigan Medicine through the Sparrow Children’s Center and with Michigan State University’s three human health colleges. Through these partnerships and the dedication of our 10,000 Caregivers, Sparrow pursues a vision to be nationally recognized as a leader in quality and Patient experience. For more information, visit Sparrow.org.