background:
McKenzie DiStefano, PT, DPT is the owner of Strength & Balance
Physical Therapy and the founder of Strength & Balance Collective in
Massachusetts. She has been a physical therapist for more than a
decade, with experience in vestibular rehabilitation, concussion care,
neurologic rehabilitation, and complex connective-tissue conditions.
Much of McKenzie’s work focuses on supporting people with
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility, POTS and dysautonomia,
chronic pain and fatigue, vestibular disorders, functional neurologic
disorder, and other complex conditions that do not always fit neatly
into traditional treatment approaches. She works with both adults and
children and understands that symptoms, energy, and function can look
very different from one day to the next.
Her connection to this community is personal as well as professional.
McKenzie and her children have some of the same or related diagnoses
as the people she works with. That experience has helped shape the way
she approaches care and gives her a deeper understanding of how these
conditions can affect the whole family—not just during appointments,
but in everyday life.
McKenzie uses a neuro-informed approach that looks at how the nervous
system, movement, pain, fatigue, and other symptoms can all interact.
She often begins with nervous system regulation and then builds toward
movement, strength, stability, and confidence at a pace that works for
the individual. Her goal is to meet people where they are and help
them find practical ways to work with their bodies rather than
constantly feeling as though they are fighting against them.
She also loves helping people understand what is happening in their
bodies. Through Strength & Balance Collective, McKenzie is creating
approachable educational resources for patients and families,
including pediatric content and the Ziggy children’s book series. Her
goal is to make complex health information feel easier to understand,
less overwhelming, and more hopeful.
Outside of work, McKenzie enjoys spending time with her husband and
two children, being outdoors, and having quiet family time at home.

