Physical Therapy Methods
Mindful Movement Physical Therapy believes that pain relief begins with understanding your body’s unique story.
Dr. Emily Warren, DPT starts each care plan with the McKenzie Method (MDT) – a globally respected, evidence-based system for treating back, neck, and joint pain. MDT empowers you to take an active role in your recovery, using targeted movement patterns to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent recurrence. We also offer dry needling to release trigger points, reduce inflammation, and support the healing process on a muscular level.
But if MDT alone doesn’t fully address your symptoms, that’s okay, you are not out of options. Dr. Emily brings a whole-person approach to physical therapy, integrating nervous system regulation tools like Feldenkrais-inspired movement, Eric Franklin exercises, yoga therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. These strategies help calm an overactive pain system, reduce stress, and promote long-term healing.
At Mindful Movement, Emily treats the body and the nervous system. True recovery comes from listening deeply, moving mindfully, and treating you as a whole.
What is the McKenzie Method?
Mindful Movement Physical Therapy takes a different approach to treating pain. One that puts you in control of your own recovery.
As a certified McKenzie therapist, we use the McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), a proven system for assessing and treating back, neck, and joint pain. This approach helps identify the specific movements that relieve pain, so you can manage your symptoms and prevent them from coming back.
However, MDT isn’t the only solution. While many people respond well to this method, some don’t, and that’s okay. There are still movement-based strategies to help everyone improve mobility, strength, and function, regardless of their response to MDT.
How Does the McKenzie Method Work?
Dr. Warren starts with a detailed evaluation to see how your pain responds to different movements and positions. If she finds you have a “directional preference”- the movement that reduces or eliminates discomfort- she builds a simple, personalized exercise plan designed to restore mobility and function.
For your follow-up treatments, you will work with Dr. Emily Warren, who is trained and highly skilled in the McKenzie Method.
The goal isn’t just to feel better in the moment but to give you the tools to stay pain-free long-term.
What are the Benefits of McKenzie Exercises?
What makes the McKenzie Method different is its focus on self-treatment. With the guidance of your Mindful Movement physical therapist, you’ll learn how to manage your symptoms without relying on constant therapy, pain medication, or unnecessary procedures.
Choosing the McKenzie Method means choosing a proactive, effective approach to healing. Benefits include:
- Empowering you to manage your own recovery
- Reducing the need for costly imaging or surgery
- Speeding up recovery times
- Preventing future pain and injury
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or a new injury, Dr. Warren’s approach ensures that you have a movement solution that works for you—whether or not MDT is the right fit. The focus is always on helping you move better, feel stronger, and get back to doing what you love.
Dry Needling
What Is Dry Needling at Mindful Movement PT in Salt Lake City?
Dry needling is a targeted technique used by Dr. Emily Warren, Doctor of Physical Therapy and certified dry needling specialist, to treat chronic pain, muscle tightness, and movement restrictions. By inserting a thin, sterile needle into specific trigger points—tight bands of muscle that cause pain—this technique helps release tension, improve mobility, and reduce inflammation.
Dry needling is based on science and anatomy, making it a trusted tool for treating orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions. At Mindful Movement PT, we use dry needling in combination with manual therapy, corrective exercise, and mindful movement strategies to support your healing.
Benefits of Dry Needling for Back Pain, Sciatica, and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Dry needling can be especially effective for:
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Back pain and sciatica
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Pelvic floor tension and dysfunction
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Neck and shoulder pain
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TMJ and jaw pain
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Headaches and migraines
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Post-injury muscle guarding
When performed by a trained professional like Dr. Warren, dry needling helps restore normal muscle function, decrease pain, and accelerate recovery. Many of our Salt Lake City patients report noticeable relief and increased range of motion after just a few sessions.
Is Dry Needling Right for You?
If you’ve tried stretching, massage, or medication but still struggle with muscle pain or tension, dry needling may be the missing piece of your recovery. At Mindful Movement PT in Salt Lake City, we tailor every treatment plan to your specific goals and health history.
Dr. Emily Warren uses a thoughtful, trauma-informed approach that prioritizes comfort, consent, and results. Whether you’re dealing with back pain, pelvic floor issues, or recovering from surgery, dry needling can support your journey toward pain-free movement and lasting wellness.
Why Choose Mindful Movement Physical Therapy in Salt Lake City?
At Mindful Movement Physical Therapy, Dr. Emily Warren is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care. She combines the proven strategies of the McKenzie Method with a holistic, mindful approach to rehabilitation. Her goal is to help you not only heal but also thrive, giving you the tools to live pain-free and confident in your movement.
What to Expect During Your Assessment
Your first visit will include a detailed assessment where we observe your movement patterns and identify the exercises that best target your pain. You’ll leave with a customized treatment plan, including simple movements you can do at home to speed up your recovery. We’re here to support you every step of the way, helping you build strength, flexibility, and resilience.
Get Started with Physical Therapy Today
Ready to find lasting relief from back or neck pain? Contact Mindful Movement Physical Therapy in Salt Lake City today to schedule your evaluation. Let’s work together to help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.
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Phone Number
(385) 332-4939