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
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
Yes, physiotherapy can be very helpful for managing osteoarthritis (OA). While it cannot cure OA, physiotherapy can significantly improve quality of life and manage symptoms. Here’s how:
1. Pain Management:
Modalities like heat, cold therapy, or TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) can help reduce pain and inflammation, providing relief for those with OA. They can also give advice on exercise and activity modifications to make movements less painful.
2. Strengthening Exercises:
Strengthening the muscles surrounding the affected joint helps to stabilise and support the joint. This can reduce strain on the cartilage and decrease pain over time.
3. Range of Motion Exercises:
Physiotherapists can guide you through stretching and mobility exercises to maintain or improve the joint’s flexibility. This can help reduce stiffness and increase the range of motion.
4. Posture and Body Mechanics:
Physiotherapists can teach you how to adjust your posture and movement patterns to avoid putting additional strain on the affected joints, which can help in reducing pain and prevent further damage.
5. Weight Management:
If OA is in the weight-bearing joints (like the knees), physiotherapists may also work with you on strategies to reduce weight, as this can help reduce the load on the joints and alleviate symptoms.
6. Assistive Devices:
In some cases, a physiotherapist can recommend the use of assistive devices like braces, orthotics, or walking aids to support the affected joint and reduce pain during daily activities.
7. Education and Self-Management:
A physiotherapist can provide education on lifestyle modifications, including joint protection techniques, and ways to manage flare-ups of pain, allowing you to take control of your condition.
8. Aerobic Conditioning:
Gentle aerobic exercises (like walking, swimming, or cycling) can help improve cardiovascular health and overall stamina while avoiding high-impact stress on the joints.
In summary, physiotherapy focuses on reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing further deterioration, making it a key component of an overall management plan for osteoarthritis.
Here at Auckland Physiotherapy we are able to examine and diagnose your hip and knee condition and give you an individually tailored Arthritis care plan.
For more information, read about Arthritis Care at Auckland Physiotherapy or Mark Quinn's Blog on Arthritis Management. We also offer relief from arthritis packages.
For more information, come into our clinic (close to Remuera, Newmarket and Parnell) to speak to our expert team. It is essential you first get the right diagnosis before any treatment and management occur so book in for a first appointment.
Check out our Online Store for great Rehab and Health goods.
There are several common foot problems that people experience, and podiatry is a branch of medicine dedicated to diagnosing and treating these conditions. Here are some of the most common foot problems and how podiatry can help:
At Auckland Physiotherapy, our Podiatrist has been practising in musculoskeletal podiatry for 13 years and has studied for 9 years (so far…). He holds his Masters and is on track to finish his PhD in 2023. Meet Aaron Jackson here. To book an appointment, book online or call our team on 09 3664480.
Is that nagging neck pain affecting your daily life? You're not alone. Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions we treat. Let's explore effective strategies to manage and resolve your neck pain.
Understanding Neck Pain Common causes include:
Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches
Prevention Strategies Maintain good neck health by:
Recovery Timeline Most people experience improvement within:
Common Questions;
Mobilisations and massage can give you short term relief. For greater short- and long-term improvements in pain and quality of life, exercise combined with manual therapy give better results in comparison to manual therapy alone.
2. Do I need to see my GP before seeing a Physio?
No, you do not need to see your GP before seeing us at Auckland Physiotherapy. Our expert team can lodge your ACC claim and refer you for imaging and specialist reviews if required. Our Physiotherapists have a wealth of knowledge in assessing and diagnosing your pain. We believe this is the most important part of your recovery as once you know what is wrong, you can use the most evidenced based treatment specific for that condition.
3. Can Poor Posture cause neck pain?
Yes, absolutely. Poor posture, especially from sitting at a desk for long periods, looking down at a phone or hunching over can over time cause stress and strain to the muscles, ligaments and joints, leading to pain.
4. Is neck pain related to stress?
Yes, stress can cause muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, which can lead to pain and discomfort. It can also alter the way you breath which in turn makes you use your neck muscles to help you breath.
5. Can neck pain cause Headaches?
Yes, neck pain is often associated with tension headaches and migraines. The muscles around your neck and your upper neck joints can refer pain to your head. At Auckland Physio, we have a specialised Headache Clinic with our expert Masters Physio Robyn Atkinson, who works with people to overcome headaches. She uses the Evidenced-based Watson Approach.
6. Is neck pain common as we age?
Yes, neck pain tends to increase with age due to conditions like osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease.
7. What can I do to prevent neck pain?
Regular exercise, maintaining good posture, good ergonomics and taking frequent breaks can help prevent neck pain. We suggest you see a Physiotherapist early to help instead of waiting.
For more information, come into our clinic (close to Remuera, Newmarket and Parnell) to speak to our expert team. It is essential you first get the right diagnosis before any treatment and management occur so book in for a first appointment.
Check out our Online Store for great Rehab and Health goods.
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, can be a frustrating and painful condition. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the condition and explore effective treatment options.
What is Frozen Shoulder? Frozen shoulder involves:
The Three Phases:
Treatment Approaches
Recovery Tips:
If you think you have a frozen shoulder, come to Auckland Physio, Parnell clinic to see one of our Physiotherapists. You can book easily online HERE or call our friendly reception team on 093664480. Alternatively, if you're not sure if Physio can help, book a Auckland Physio complimentary call.
Common Questions
Yes, Physiotherapy can be very effective in treating frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). Physiotherapists use a combination of treatments to reduce pain, increase the range of motion, and improve function in the shoulder.
Common physiotherapy techniques at Auckland Physiotherapy include:
If you're dealing with frozen shoulder, it’s important to work closely with a physiotherapist who can guide you through exercises and treatments specific to your condition. It may take time, but physiotherapy can lead to significant improvement.
2. How long does it take for a Frozen Shoulder to go?
A frozen shoulder can be a slow and frustrating condition, and the recovery timeline can vary from person to person. Generally, it progresses through three stages:
1. Freezing stage (painful phase): This stage lasts 6 weeks to 9 months, where the shoulder becomes increasingly painful, especially with movement, and its range of motion starts to decrease.
2. Frozen stage (adhesive phase): This stage can last 4 to 6 months. The pain may decrease, but the shoulder becomes stiff, making it difficult to move. Function is limited.
3. Thawing stage (recovery phase): This can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. During this stage, the shoulder gradually regains mobility, and pain continues to decrease.
In total, recovery from a frozen shoulder can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years. Without treatment, spontaneous complete or nearly-complete recovery over a varied period of time occurs. However, with proper treatment, including physiotherapy, the recovery time can be shortened, and the condition can be managed more effectively. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises, along with professional guidance, can help speed up the recovery process and improve outcomes.
3. What causes frozen shoulder?
A Frozen Shoulder affects about 6% of the population. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is often linked to shoulder injury, surgery, or conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and heart disease. It can also occur without any apparent reason.
4. How do I know if I have a frozen shoulder?
Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the shoulder, difficulty moving the arm, especially in certain directions (like overhead or behind the back), a limited range of motion and pain sleeping on the affected side. At Auckland Physio, our expert Physio team will assess your shoulder and do a range of special tests to try and diagnose your pain. You may be asked to get an X-ray and Ultrasound to rule out any other injuries. You may also be referred to a specialist for further management.
5. Can frozen shoulder go away on its own?
Yes, but it can take a long time—sometimes up to 2 to 3 years. Treatment, like physiotherapy, can help speed up recovery and reduce pain.
6. Can physiotherapy cure frozen shoulder?
Physiotherapy can significantly help reduce pain, improve range of motion, and restore function, but full recovery can take time and may require a combination of treatments.
7. What are the risk factors for a Frozen Shoulder?
Common risk factors include age (typically 40-60 years old), diabetes, heart disease, recent shoulder surgery or injury, thyroid disorders, and prolonged immobility.
For more information, come into our clinic (close to Remuera, Newmarket and Parnell) to speak to our expert team. It is essential you first get the right diagnosis before any treatment and management occur so book in for a first appointment.
Check out our Online Store for Rehab and Health goods.
A Comprehensive Guide
Living with gluteal tendinopathy (also known as greater trochanteric pain syndrome) can be challenging, but effective treatment options are available. This condition affects the tendons that connect your gluteal muscles to your hip and can cause persistent pain on the outside of your hip.
In this condition, tendons are generally not inflamed, which is why traditional methods like rest and anti-inflammatory medications often don't resolve the issue. Most experts recognize the problem as being degenerative, which may sound intimidating, but it is something that can usually be treated successfully for most people.
To put it simply, the body experiences constant strain from physical activity, leading to wear, and then repairs itself during periods of rest. When the wear occurs faster than the body’s ability to repair, healthy tendons can become weakened and eventually painful.
Several factors influence this wear-and-repair process, such as the intensity of exercise, fitness level, body composition, hormonal shifts, stress, posture, limb alignment, and past injuries. Because of this, simply easing back into activity doesn’t always solve the problem, and a more tailored rehabilitation plan is often necessary. This rehab approach focuses on identifying the specific factors causing the issue and creating an exercise routine to strengthen the gluteal muscles and tendons, improving their ability to tolerate stress.
Tendons have a limited blood supply, meaning that healing and adapting to exercise is a slow process, which is why rehabilitation can take months. However, with consistency and patience, this method typically leads to long-term improvement and successful outcomes.
Key Treatment Approaches:
Prevention Tips:
If you need more information or need help with your hip pain, book a Physio session at Auckland Physiotherapy, Newmarket. If you are unsure who you would like to see, book a complimentary call and talk to one of our expert Physio's today.
WHAT YOU NEED;
WHAT TO DO;
This recipe was by Karina from cafe delights.
Becoming a mother is one of a woman’s biggest transformations in life, yet we can be so quick to hand over the experience and our trust to others. A care provider may have more knowledge and experience in the world of birth, however they are not qualified in knowing who we are, nor do they have an understanding of our personal foundations - what feels safe to us and what we define as feeling appropriately supported.
Formulating a birth plan can be seen as an exercise that can help you to get clear on what is important to you and can provide you with the clarity to make any decisions that may need to be made during birth feel much less overwhelming.
Why do I need a birth plan?
How do I create a birth plan?
Creating a birth plan is one of the minimal yet most impactful things you can do in preparation for your birth experience and it is never too early to begin.
Your birth plan should be:
Our personal experiences, health and personality will all contribute to how we birth.
There is no one person that can guarantee the birth we may want and we cannot have the chance of having the birth that we want if we do not take accountability to find out what that birth looks like for us.
To help you to get clear on what matters to you for your birth and for support creating your personalised birth plan, book a session with our Maternal Health Consultant, Vanessa Werner.
