Whether you’re an athlete, a desk worker, a busy parent, or simply someone who values self-care, regular massage therapy can be a powerful tool for maintaining your physical and mental wellbeing. But a common question we get is: How often should I be getting a massage to get the most benefit?
The answer depends on your individual needs, lifestyle, and health goals. Here's a breakdown to help guide you.
Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks
If your goal is to maintain a sense of relaxation, reduce everyday stress, and keep your body moving well, a monthly massage is typically ideal. This frequency allows your therapist to address tension before it becomes chronic and helps maintain muscle flexibility and balance. If you have high stress, our massage therapist may suggest weekly until symptoms settle.
Frequency: once per week initially, tapering to fortnightly as symptoms improve
Massage can play a crucial role in managing conditions such as lower back pain, neck and shoulder tension, migraines, or soft tissue injuries. In the early stages of treatment or flare-ups, more frequent sessions may be needed. As you progress, your therapist can help you gradually reduce the frequency while maintaining results.
Frequency: Weekly to fortnightly, depending on training load
If you’re training regularly—whether you're a runner, cyclist, dancer, or hitting the gym—massage helps to manage muscle fatigue, enhance performance, and prevent overuse injuries. Scheduling massages around your training cycles can significantly improve recovery time.
Frequency: Every 2–4 weeks
Prolonged sitting, poor posture, and repetitive strain can lead to tight hip flexors, rounded shoulders, and neck pain. Regular massage can counteract these effects and improve posture and comfort in your day-to-day routine.
Regardless of your reason for getting a massage, the most important thing is consistency. Just like exercise or a healthy diet, regular massage offers the best results when it becomes a routine part of your self-care.
At Auckland Physiotherapy, our massage therapists work alongside our Physios to tailor treatment plans to your specific needs. Whether you're managing pain, recovering from injury, or simply looking to relax, we’ll help you determine the best frequency and style of massage to support your health journey.
Ready to feel the benefits of regular massage?
Book your next session here or call us on 09 366 4480 to speak with our friendly team.
The shoulder is one of the most complex and mobile joints in the human body, making it particularly susceptible to injury and pain. Whether you're an athlete, office worker, or simply going about daily activities, shoulder pain can significantly impact your quality of life. The good news is that physiotherapy offers effective, evidence-based treatments that can help you recover faster and prevent future problems – especially when you seek treatment early.
The shoulder joint is actually a complex of four joints working together, supported by numerous muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This intricate system allows for the remarkable range of motion we rely on daily, from reaching overhead to throwing a ball. However, this mobility comes at the cost of stability, making the shoulder vulnerable to various injuries and conditions.
The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. Rotator cuff injuries can range from inflammation (tendinitis) to partial or complete tears. These injuries are incredibly common, affecting approximately 2 million people in the United States annually, with prevalence increasing significantly after age 60.
Common causes: Repetitive overhead activities, age-related degeneration, acute trauma, or gradual wear and tear.
Physiotherapy approach: Progressive strengthening exercises, manual therapy, posture correction, and activity modification. Research shows that conservative treatment with physiotherapy is successful in 73-80% of cases, even for some full-thickness tears.
Frozen shoulder involves inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule, leading to severe stiffness and pain that typically progresses through three phases: freezing, frozen, and thawing. This condition affects 2-5% of the population, with higher rates in individuals with diabetes or thyroid disorders.
Common causes: Often idiopathic (unknown cause), but can follow injury, surgery, or prolonged immobilization.
Physiotherapy approach: Joint mobilization techniques, stretching exercises, heat therapy, and pain management strategies. Studies demonstrate that physiotherapy can reduce recovery time from the typical 2-3 years to 6-12 months.
This occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become compressed or "pinched" between the bones of the shoulder, particularly during overhead movements. Impingement syndrome accounts for up to 65% of all shoulder pain complaints in clinical settings.
Common causes: Poor posture, muscle imbalances, repetitive overhead activities, or structural abnormalities.
Physiotherapy approach: Postural correction, strengthening of the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, manual therapy, and biomechanical retraining. Research indicates that 67-90% of patients improve with conservative physiotherapy treatment.
Shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket. Following the initial injury, some individuals develop chronic instability, making them prone to recurring dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations).
Common causes: Trauma from sports, falls, or accidents. First-time dislocations are most common in young athletes and older adults during falls.
Physiotherapy approach: Progressive strengthening program focusing on dynamic stability, proprioceptive training, and sport-specific rehabilitation. Studies show that structured physiotherapy programs can reduce recurrence rates from 80% to 14-20% in young athletes.
Bursitis involves inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles around the shoulder joint. The subacromial bursa is most commonly affected, often occurring alongside impingement syndrome.
Common causes: Repetitive motions, prolonged pressure, acute trauma, or secondary to other shoulder conditions.
Physiotherapy approach: Activity modification, anti-inflammatory modalities, gentle range of motion exercises, and gradual strengthening. Conservative treatment is successful in approximately 90% of cases when initiated early.
When shoulder pain persists, your body naturally compensates by altering movement patterns. These compensations can lead to problems in the neck, upper back, and even the opposite shoulder. Research published in the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery shows that individuals who delay treatment are 3.2 times more likely to develop secondary musculoskeletal problems.
The transition from acute to chronic pain involves changes in the nervous system's pain processing. Studies indicate that shoulder pain lasting longer than 3-6 months becomes significantly more difficult to treat due to central sensitization – where the nervous system becomes hypersensitive to pain signals.
Shoulder joints begin losing range of motion within days of injury or onset of pain due to protective muscle guarding and inflammation. Research demonstrates that every week of delayed treatment can result in 5-10 degrees of motion loss, which becomes increasingly difficult to restore over time.
Disuse atrophy begins within 72 hours of reduced activity. A study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that individuals who started physiotherapy within one week of shoulder injury retained 95% of their baseline strength, compared to only 78% in those who waited four weeks or longer.
Multiple systematic reviews have consistently shown that early physiotherapy intervention leads to:
Early physiotherapy treatment is not only clinically superior but also economically advantageous. Studies show that immediate physiotherapy care reduces total healthcare costs by 50-72% compared to delayed treatment, primarily by preventing the need for advanced imaging, injections, or surgical procedures.
Your physiotherapy journey will typically begin with a comprehensive assessment to identify the specific cause of your shoulder pain and any contributing factors. Treatment plans are individualized but commonly include:
Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce pain, including joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and trigger point release.
Exercise Prescription: Progressive strengthening and stretching programs tailored to your specific condition and functional goals.
Education: Understanding your condition, proper posture, ergonomics, and self-management strategies.
Modalities: Evidence-based treatments such as therapeutic ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or dry needling when appropriate.
Functional Training: Sport or activity-specific exercises to ensure safe return to your desired activities.
Don't wait for shoulder pain to resolve on its own. Seek physiotherapy evaluation if you experience:
Shoulder pain is incredibly common, but it doesn't have to be a long-term problem. The evidence is clear: early physiotherapy intervention leads to faster recovery, better outcomes, and reduced risk of chronic problems. Whether you're dealing with a rotator cuff injury, frozen shoulder, impingement, instability, or bursitis, seeking prompt, professional treatment is your best strategy for getting back to the activities you love.
Remember, your shoulder is designed to move – keeping it healthy and functional requires the right approach at the right time. Don't let shoulder pain sideline you longer than necessary. The sooner you take action, the sooner you can get back to living pain-free.
If you have shoulder pain, visit our expert team in our boutique clinic, sandwiched in-between Newmarket, Parnell & Remuera. To find the Physio that suits you, click on our shoulder pain page and book online.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified physiotherapist or healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of shoulder pain.
When most people think of pelvic health physiotherapy, they typically associate it with women's health, particularly during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. However, men also have a pelvic floor, and pelvic health issues affect millions of men worldwide. Men's pelvic health physiotherapy is a specialised field that addresses a range of conditions affecting the male pelvic region, yet it remains significantly underutilised due to lack of awareness and stigma surrounding these intimate health concerns.
The pelvic floor is a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that form a supportive sling at the base of the pelvis. In men, these muscles support the bladder, bowel, and play a crucial role in sexual function. The male pelvic floor muscles include the levator ani group (puborectalis, pubococcygeus, and iliococcygeus), the coccygeus, and the muscles of the urogenital triangle.
These muscles are responsible for several vital functions including maintaining continence (both urinary and fecal), supporting pelvic organs, contributing to core stability, and facilitating sexual function including erection and ejaculation. When these muscles become dysfunctional—whether too tight, too weak, or poorly coordinated—a variety of symptoms can emerge that significantly impact quality of life.
Men's pelvic health physiotherapy is a specialised branch of physiotherapy that focuses on the assessment and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction in men. Qualified pelvic health physiotherapists undergo additional training to understand the complex anatomy and function of the pelvic region and develop expertise in treating conditions that affect this area.
The approach is comprehensive and evidence-based, combining manual therapy techniques, exercise prescription, education, and behavioral modifications. Treatment is always conducted with the utmost respect for patient dignity and comfort, with thorough explanation of all procedures and obtaining informed consent throughout the process.
Urinary incontinence affects approximately 5-15% of men, with prevalence increasing with age. There are several types that pelvic health physiotherapy can address:
Stress Incontinence occurs when physical activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercise cause urine leakage. This is often seen following prostate surgery, where studies show that pre and post-operative pelvic floor muscle training can significantly reduce the duration and severity of incontinence.
Urge Incontinence involves a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary loss of urine. Research demonstrates that pelvic floor muscle training combined with bladder training techniques can reduce symptoms by up to 70% in some patients.
Mixed Incontinence combines elements of both stress and urge incontinence and requires a tailored treatment approach addressing both underlying mechanisms.
Prostate surgery, whether for cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia, can significantly impact pelvic floor function. Studies consistently show that men who engage in supervised pelvic floor muscle training before and after prostate surgery experience faster recovery of continence and improved quality of life outcomes. A systematic review published in the European Urology journal found that guided pelvic floor muscle training reduced the time to continence recovery by an average of 1-3 months compared to standard care.
Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS), previously known as chronic prostatitis, affects up to 10% of men at some point in their lives. This condition can cause persistent pain in the pelvic region, often accompanied by urinary symptoms and sexual dysfunction.
Pelvic health physiotherapy has emerged as a first-line treatment for CPPS, with multiple studies demonstrating significant improvements in pain and quality of life measures. Treatment typically involves a combination of manual therapy to address muscle tension and trigger points, relaxation techniques, and graduated exercise programs.
While often thought of as purely a vascular or psychological issue, erectile dysfunction can also have a muscular component. The pelvic floor muscles, particularly the ischiocavernosus and bulbospongiosus muscles, play important roles in maintaining erection and facilitating ejaculation.
Research has shown that pelvic floor muscle training can be effective for certain types of erectile dysfunction, particularly when combined with lifestyle modifications. A randomized controlled trial published in the British Journal of General Practice found that men with erectile dysfunction who performed pelvic floor exercises showed significant improvement compared to lifestyle changes alone.
Premature ejaculation affects approximately 20-30% of men and can significantly impact sexual satisfaction and relationships. Pelvic floor muscle training has shown promise as a treatment approach, with studies indicating that learning to control and coordinate pelvic floor muscles can help men gain better control over the ejaculatory reflex.
Men can experience various forms of bowel dysfunction, including fecal incontinence, constipation, and incomplete evacuation. Pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to these issues, and physiotherapy interventions including muscle training, coordination exercises, and toileting posture education can provide significant symptom relief.
The cornerstone of pelvic health physiotherapy is pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). This involves learning to properly contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles through specific exercises. Research consistently supports PFMT as an effective first-line treatment for various pelvic floor disorders. At Auckland Physiotherapy, we use a real-time ultrasound to ensure that you correctly engage your pelvic floors.
Effective PFMT programs typically include both strengthening exercises for weak muscles and relaxation techniques for overactive muscles. The training is individualized based on assessment findings and may include different contraction intensities, durations, and frequencies.
Hands-on techniques may be used to address muscle tension, trigger points, and joint restrictions that contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction. This can include internal and external manual therapy techniques, always performed with explicit consent and appropriate draping for patient comfort and dignity.
Biofeedback uses electronic monitoring to provide real-time feedback about muscle activity, helping patients learn proper muscle coordination. Studies show that biofeedback can enhance the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training, particularly for patients who have difficulty identifying or controlling these muscles initially.
In some cases, electrical stimulation may be used to help strengthen weak muscles or reduce overactivity in tense muscles. This technique can be particularly helpful for patients who initially cannot voluntarily contract their pelvic floor muscles effectively.
A crucial component of treatment involves education about pelvic floor anatomy and function, along with lifestyle modifications that can support pelvic health. This may include guidance on fluid intake, dietary modifications, toileting posture, and activity modifications.
The first appointment typically involves a comprehensive history taking, including discussion of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors. The physiotherapist will explain the assessment process and obtain consent for any physical examination components.
Physical assessment may include evaluation of posture, core stability, breathing patterns, and pelvic floor muscle function. Any internal examination is always optional and conducted only with explicit consent, following thorough explanation of the procedure and its benefits.
Based on assessment findings, the physiotherapist will develop an individualized treatment plan with clear, measurable goals. Treatment frequency and duration vary depending on the condition and individual factors, but typically involve regular sessions over several weeks to months.
Progress is regularly monitored through symptom tracking, functional assessments, and patient-reported outcome measures. Treatment plans are adjusted based on response and changing needs throughout the rehabilitation process.
Despite the effectiveness of pelvic health physiotherapy for men's conditions, several barriers prevent men from accessing these services. Stigma and embarrassment around discussing intimate health issues often delay help-seeking behavior. Many men are simply unaware that these services exist or that their symptoms are treatable.
Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating patients about pelvic health physiotherapy and making appropriate referrals. Increasing awareness among primary care physicians, urologists, and other specialists can help ensure men receive timely access to these services.
Men experiencing pelvic floor symptoms should seek evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider. While pelvic floor exercises are often promoted in general wellness contexts, professional assessment is important to ensure appropriate technique and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to symptoms.
Pelvic health physiotherapists undergo specialized training and maintain professional standards that ensure safe, effective, and respectful care. Treatment is always individualized based on thorough assessment rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Men's pelvic health physiotherapy represents an essential but underutilized healthcare service that can significantly improve quality of life for men experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction. With strong evidence supporting its effectiveness for conditions ranging from incontinence to chronic pain, this specialized field of physiotherapy offers hope for men who may have been told to "live with" their symptoms.
As awareness grows and stigma reduces, more men are discovering that effective treatment is available for these often-debilitating conditions. By seeking help from qualified pelvic health physiotherapists, men can take control of their pelvic health and work toward symptom resolution and improved quality of life.
The key to successful outcomes lies in early intervention, professional guidance, and commitment to the treatment process. Men experiencing any symptoms related to pelvic floor dysfunction should not hesitate to discuss these concerns with their healthcare provider and explore whether pelvic health physiotherapy could benefit their specific situation.
If you're experiencing symptoms that might benefit from pelvic health physiotherapy, please book in with our Senior Pelvic Health Physio, Julie Blades. Our clinic is is Housed in the beautiful Foundation Precinct, sandwiched in-between Newmarket, Parnell & Remuera. We have a state of the art gym, two Pilates Studio's and we use modern objective testing machines to ensure we get you back quickly to what you love.
If you're over 35 and playing 90-minute footy matches every weekend, listen up 
One of the most common injuries in middle-aged footballers? Calf strains.
Here’s why it happens (and how to stop it happening to you):
Too much, too soon.
Not enough dynamic loading during the week.
Poor tissue tolerance to high-speed work.
Thinking your 20 years old again and as fit + fast as you were back then
Let’s break it down:
You push hard on Saturday—accelerating, decelerating, sprinting, cutting—all at max intensity. But during the week? You’re flat-out with life: work, family, recovery... repeat.
So your calf (and the muscle–tendon unit around it) goes from 6 days of minimal load 1 day of max intensity. That’s a recipe for overload and injury.
Here’s how to strengthen your calves:
Add 1–2 runs per week:
No time to run? Do this instead:
Quick 10-min calf-focused session:
Do this 1–2x/week, and your calves will thank you.
Consistency > Intensity
You don’t need to train like a pro. But doing something mid-week helps you keep playing and avoid injury.
Stay active. Stay strong. Stay in the game.
Written by Adele Griffin, Personal Trainer and Pilates instructor
Whether you're just getting started or wanting more from your training, a well-balanced routine is the key to looking after your body and feeling your best - inside and out. The good news? It doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple weekly formula that covers all the essentials your body needs to thrive:
Strength training 2–3 times a week is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind. Think moves like squats, lunges, deadlifts, rows, and presses—these help build lean muscle, boost your metabolism, support your joints, and improve your overall shape. Plus, they help you feel strong and capable in your everyday life (hello, carrying groceries with ease!). Whether you prefer full-body sessions or like to split upper and lower body days, just aim to stay consistent and keep challenging yourself bit by bit.
Conditioning or cardio twice a week is a great way to boost your heart health, energy, and endurance. Whether it’s a brisk walk, some interval sprints, a fun dance class, or circuit training, it all counts! Cardio also helps with body composition and gives your mood a nice lift. The best part? You don’t have to go full throttle every time - try mixing high-intensity bursts with lower-impact, steady-paced sessions to keep things balanced and enjoyable.
Pilates or mobility work once or twice a week is a game-changer for your body. Just because it’s low-impact doesn’t mean it’s low on results! Pilates helps build core strength, improve posture, increase flexibility, and boost body awareness. It’s the perfect way to balance out your tougher training days, prevent injuries, and simply move better in everyday life. The bonus? It pairs so well with strength and cardio, giving your body a chance to recover and reset - while still staying active and intentional.
The real magic happens when you mix it all together—strength, cardio, and mobility. This combo gives you the best of all worlds: more energy, better sleep, a stronger body, and a boost in your mood. You’ll feel the difference, and yep, you’ll probably start to see it too! If you’re not sure where to begin, just start small with one session of each per week and build from there. Your body will thank you for it!
Acupuncture is more than just an ancient practice—it’s a modern, evidence-informed therapy embraced by physiotherapists around the world, including here at Auckland Physiotherapy. Whether you're recovering from injury, managing pain, or seeking improved function, acupuncture can play a powerful role in your rehabilitation.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. Traditionally rooted in Chinese medicine, modern Western acupuncture—as used by physiotherapists—is based on anatomy, physiology, and scientific understanding of the nervous system, muscle function, and pain modulation.
At Auckland Physiotherapy, acupuncture is often integrated into a broader treatment plan that may also include manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education.
From a Western scientific perspective, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system and activates the body's natural healing processes. Here's how:
While research into acupuncture is ongoing, there is growing scientific support for its use in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Some key findings include:
These findings support acupuncture as a complementary tool for reducing pain, improving function, and supporting recovery.
Physiotherapists are experts in human movement and rehabilitation. Acupuncture fits seamlessly into physiotherapy care when applied with clinical reasoning. At Auckland Physiotherapy, we use acupuncture to:
Our physiotherapists are certified in acupuncture and dry needling and always tailor the technique to suit your individual presentation and treatment goals.
Acupuncture is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects when performed by trained professionals. Most patients report a sense of relaxation during and after treatment, and for many, it significantly contributes to pain relief and recovery.
It may be especially helpful if you:
If acupuncture is recommended as part of your treatment plan, your physiotherapist will:
At Auckland Physiotherapy, we believe in holistic, patient-centered care. Acupuncture is just one of many tools we use to help you recover, move better, and feel your best.
📅 Interested in exploring acupuncture as part of your physiotherapy care?
We have two certified Physiotherapists that incorporate acupuncture as part of their Physiotherapy practice. To read more and book a spot with them, click the link below.
👉 Clodagh Quilter - Senior Physiotherapist
👉 Kirsten Rose - Masters Physiotherapist
Breathwork is one of the fastest growing modalities in the Health and Wellbeing industry. Debate over “right” and “wrong” breathing is a hot topic. This may seem a bit ridiculous as breathing is a subconscious act that we have done since birth. Our Director, Helen van Praagh discusses how it may not be just a passing fad, and offers insights as to how breathing pattern disorders can occur and what you can do about them.
What is Normal/ Optimal Breathing?
A healthy adult should have 12-18 breaths per minute at rest. The ratio of inhalation to exhalation is 1:2. Optimal breathing at rest uses the diaphragm, a dome shaped muscle at the bottom of your ribs. Your lungs do not have the ability to expand and contract on their own so instead, they change shape in response to the shape of their container. When we inhale, the diaphragm contracts and flattens down, lengthening the lung space and creating a vacuum which pulls in air. The intercostal muscles (found between the ribs) act like handles that lift the ribs up and out as you inhale, which further increases space in the chest cavity. Exhalation is a relaxed process using the elastic recoil of the chest cavity as the diaphragm and intercostal muscles release the contraction and decrease the space in the chest cavity.
What is Dysfunctional Breathing?
Instead of using the diaphragm to breathe, dysfunctional breathing uses an apical breathing pattern, which means that most of the breathing is done in the upper chest area. This pattern uses the accessory breathing muscles which include the pectorals, scalene muscles, trapezius, sternocleidomastoid and upper intercostal muscles.
Over time, these muscles shorten and the diaphragm is unable to return to it’s optimal resting position causing dynamic hyperinflation, alteration in the length-tension ratio of the muscles and pressure change, further compounding the disorder. It can also lead to trigger point development, pain and fatigue in these muscles.
What is a breathing pattern disorder?
A breathing pattern disorder is a chronic pattern of overbreathing in which the depth and rate of breath exceed the metabolic needs of the body at that time. It occurs in absence of disease and can cause seemingly unrelated symptoms. The prevalence of serious breathing pattern disorders is as high a 6-10% in the general population however, far more people are likely to have a more subtle, yet clinically significant, breathing pattern disorder. The disorders are also more prevalent in women (14%) than in men (2%).
Habitual shallow breathing causes hypocapnia, which basically means a state of reduced carbon dioxide in the blood. This occurs as C02 is eliminated too quickly, resulting in a reduction in arterial CO2 (PaCO2) levels. Once the arterial CO2 levels drop below 35mmHG, increased alkalinity in the body’s PH arises, causing respiratory alkalosis.
It has been proposed that respiratory alkalosis creates a state of sympathetic dominance, which invokes a ‘fright-flight’ response throughout the body. This leads to a heightened neuronal, physiological and psychological state, causing increased muscle tone, paraesthesia and altered rate and depth of breathing.
Acute hyperventilation is normal in times of exercise, however if this respiratory alkalosis continues, it can trigger a multisystem cascade of effects that creates a variety of seemingly unrelated or unexplained symptoms.
The mechanisms underlying disordered breathing involve physiological, psychological and biomechanical components that cannot be completely separated. Stress, anxiety, pain and trauma have all been shown to contribute to the development of a breathing pattern disorder.
What are the symptoms of a breathing pattern disorder?
Typical symptoms of a breathing disorder are;
· Frequent sighing and yawning
· Breathing discomfort*
· Disturbed sleep
· Erratic heartbeats*
· Feeling anxious and uptight
· Pins and needles feeling in the limbs
· Upset stomach/nausea
· Clammy hands
· Twitches or tremors*
· Chest Pains*
· Shattered confidence
· Tired all the time
· Achy muscles and joints
· Dizzy spells* or feeling spaced out
· Irritability or hypervigilance
· Feelings of 'air hunger'
· Reflux
* If you have these symptoms - it is advised that you seek urgent medical care.
How can I be diagnosed with a breathing pattern disorder?
Sufferers often take a long time to be diagnosed, under-go continual tests and seek aid from multiple health professionals. Diagnosis can be difficult as breathing is a complicated and dynamic process. It involves biochemical, biomechanical and psychophysiological components, of which there is not one standardised test. A thorough subjective and objective assessment is required by a trained Physiotherapist including looking at respiratory rate, breathing pattern, breath hold and the completion of the Nijmegen Questionnaire.
Treatment of a breathing pattern disorder
Management consists of removal of causative factors and rehabilitation of the habitual acquired dysfunctional breathing pattern. As with the assessment, treatment often needs to be multi-dimensional. Breathing retraining and respiratory muscle strengthening are completed by a trained Physiotherapist. Manual therapy and postural strengthening exercises may be required to improve thoracic mobility and muscle tone and length to allow the diaphragm to work optimally. Relaxation methods, mindfulness or meditation are used to reduce the associated stress and anxiety along with sleep and diet advice.
If this sounds like you, or you have been experiencing the symptoms above, we recommend you book in for a breathing assessment with Niamh Knightly, our Senior Physiotherapist and breathing expert. Click HERE to book an assessment. You can also book a complimentary 15 minute phone call with Niamh to decide if an assessment is recommended. Click HERE to book a complimentary 15 minute phone call.
We’re thrilled to announce that physiotherapist Niamh Knightly is now offering physiotherapy for Breathing Disorders as part of our musculoskeletal physiotherapy services.
Breathing is something most of us take for granted—until it becomes difficult. Whether it’s shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, dizziness, or a constant feeling of not getting enough air, disordered breathing can significantly impact your quality of life.
This new service is ideal for those who experience:
Niamh brings not only her clinical expertise, but a deep personal understanding to this work. Having experienced ongoing breathlessness herself—especially during times of stress and post-illness—she understands how frightening and frustrating it can be. It’s this personal journey that led her to train in breathing retraining methods, and why she’s so passionate about helping others feel safe and strong in their own breath again.
As part of your breathing physiotherapy assessment, Niamh will:
This is not just for people with diagnosed respiratory conditions—many people unknowingly develop inefficient breathing patterns due to stress, pain, injury, or lifestyle. You’d be surprised how much better you can feel when your breath is working with you, not against you.
Ready to breathe better, feel calmer, and reconnect with your body?
Book your breathing physiotherapy assessment HERE with Niamh today and take the first step towards a calmer, more energised you.
Senior Physiotherapist + Breathing Expert
Book your Breathing Assessment HERE
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects weight-bearing joints, including the foot and ankle. Characterised by cartilage breakdown, joint stiffness, pain, and swelling, OA can significantly impair mobility and quality of life. While many associate podiatrists with general foot care, they play a crucial role in managing foot and ankle osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis in the foot and ankle most frequently affects the big toe joint (first metatarsophalangeal joint), midfoot, and ankle joint. Common symptoms include:
Unlike other joints, the ankle is less commonly affected by OA unless there is a history of trauma or instability.
Podiatrists are healthcare professionals specialising in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle conditions. Their role in managing OA includes both non-surgical and surgical interventions.
Podiatrists conduct a thorough examination, including:
Early diagnosis helps prevent progression and tailor appropriate treatments.
Most cases of osteoarthritis are managed non-surgically, especially in the early stages. Podiatrists offer:
Education is vital. Podiatrists teach patients about joint protection techniques, weight management (which significantly impacts foot joints), and pacing activities to reduce flare-ups.
When conservative treatments fail, podiatrists may refer for to an Orthopeadic surgeon for operations, such as:
Research supports the effectiveness of podiatry interventions:
If you’re experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, swelling, or stiffness, especially if it worsens with activity or after rest, it’s a good idea to consult a podiatrist. Early intervention can delay disease progression and improve quality of life.
Conclusion
Podiatrists are key players in the multidisciplinary management of foot and ankle osteoarthritis. Through accurate diagnosis, conservative care, and when necessary, surgical interventions, they help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance daily functioning. If you or someone you know is struggling with foot or ankle OA, seeking podiatry care could be a step in the right direction.
Contact Us Today
If you’re experiencing any of the issues discussed above or simply want to learn more about how Podiatry can help improve your quality of life, contact our our clinic (close to Remuera, Newmarket and Parnell) today to schedule a consultation or book in for a first appointment online. Our expert Podiatrist, Aaron Jackson is ready to support your journey to better health and well-being.
Your pelvic floor might not be something you think about often—but it plays a crucial role in your overall health and quality of life. From bladder control to sexual function and even posture, this group of muscles does far more than many realize. Whether you’re recovering from childbirth, aging, or simply looking to improve core strength, understanding and strengthening your pelvic floor can have lasting benefits.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that stretch like a hammock from your pubic bone to your tailbone. These muscles support your bladder, bowel, and (for women) the uterus. They also help control urination, bowel movements, and sexual function.
When these muscles are weak or dysfunctional, it can lead to common issues such as:
Several factors can weaken the pelvic floor, including:
You may have a weak pelvic floor if you notice:
Kegel exercises involve tightening and holding the pelvic muscles as if you’re trying to stop the flow of urine. Research consistently shows that regular Kegels improve symptoms of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Research also shows that they are more successful when completed under the management of a Physio and can take up to 13 weeks to see results.
How to do Kegels:
Evidence: A 2018 review in the Cochrane Database found that pelvic floor muscle training significantly improves symptoms of stress and urge incontinence.
If you’re unsure whether you're doing Kegels correctly, pelvic floor physiotherapy can help. Therapists use biofeedback and guided exercises tailored to your needs.
Evidence: A 2020 study in the International Urogynecology Journal showed that physical therapy, including biofeedback, leads to significant improvements in pelvic floor function.
Pilates emphasizes controlled movement and core stability, which often includes the pelvic floor. Some Pilates exercises can naturally engage and strengthen these muscles. If you have pelvic floor issues, we suggest seeing a Pelvic Health Physio before you start to ensure you correctly engage your muscles as doing them wrong can ofetn worsen symptoms.
Evidence: Studies, such as one in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice (2015), have shown that Pilates improves pelvic floor muscle strength and reduces urinary incontinence.
Excess weight increases pressure on your pelvic floor, making it harder for the muscles to function well. A healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce this strain.
Evidence: A study in Obstetrics & Gynecology (2005) found that even a modest weight loss of 5-10% can significantly reduce urinary leakage.
Chronic straining from constipation weakens the pelvic muscles. Eat a fiber-rich diet (25–35 grams/day), stay hydrated, and be active to keep bowel movements regular.
Avoid going "just in case" too frequently, and don’t rush urination. Over time, poor bladder habits can affect pelvic muscle function.
If you’ve tried exercises but still experience symptoms like frequent leakage, pelvic pain, or a bulging/ dragging sensation, consult a pelvic health physiotherapist. Early intervention can prevent more serious problems.
Your pelvic floor health is essential, and taking steps to strengthen it is an investment in your well-being. With regular practice of evidence-based exercises like Kegels, attention to posture, and healthy lifestyle habits, you can prevent or manage many common pelvic floor issues.
Start today—a few minutes a day can lead to big improvements in your quality of life.
