How I Treat

Every patient is different, and so is every treatment plan. My approach is built around understanding your problem clearly, treating it specifically, and giving you the tools to manage it yourself. The goal is always to help you become less reliant on me, not more. After a thorough assessment, I draw on a range of techniques to get you moving better. Here's what I use, and what each one does.

McKenzie Method (MDT)

The McKenzie Method, formally known as Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy, is a structured, evidence-based approach to assessing and treating back pain, neck pain, and other musculoskeletal problems. It's a particularly good framework for identifying the specific cause of your pain which means treatment is targeted rather than generic.

I am an MDT certified clinician and use it as the foundation of my diagnostic process, especially for low back pain and sciatica. Most patients find that understanding what's driving their pain, and what they can do about it, is one of the most useful things they take away from treatment.

Education and Self-Management

Understanding your body is one of the most powerful tools in recovery. I explain what's causing your pain, how the treatment works, and what you can do independently to keep improving. My aim is always for patients to need me less over time, not more.

Massage and Soft Tissue Therapy

Hands-on soft tissue work is one of the most direct ways to reduce pain and restore movement. I use massage and manual therapy techniques to loosen tight muscles, improve circulation, and prepare the body for movement-based treatment.

This isn't relaxation massage. It's clinical and targeted, focused on the specific structures causing your problem.

Dry Needling

Dry needling uses fine needles to release tight muscle tissue and reduce pain. It works by targeting trigger points, areas of muscle that have become knotted and restricted, to improve blood flow, reduce tension, and restore movement.

It's not acupuncture, and it doesn't involve any medication. Most people feel a dull ache or brief twitch sensation during treatment, followed by a noticeable release in the area.

Dry needling is one tool among many. I only use it when it's the right fit for your problem, and always with your consent. If needles aren't for you, that's completely fine. There are other hands-on techniques that achieve the same result, and we'll find the right approach for you.

Joint Mobilisation and Manipulation

or joints that are stiff, restricted, or painful, mobilisation and manipulation techniques can help restore normal movement. Mobilisation involves gentle, controlled movement of the joint through its range. Manipulation, the technique often associated with a clicking or popping sound, uses a quick, precise movement to release restriction and reduce pain.

Manipulation isn't right for everyone, and I never use it without a clear clinical reason and your full consent. If it's not something you're comfortable with, there are other effective ways to get the same outcome. We'll always work within what feels right for you.

Mulligan Technique

The Mulligan Technique combines joint mobilisation with active movement, meaning you move while I apply a gentle sustained pressure to the joint. It's often used when a joint isn't moving quite right, and it tends to work quickly. Many patients notice a significant improvement in pain and range of movement within the same session.

Strength and Conditioning

Getting you out of pain is only part of the job. Keeping you out of pain means building the strength and resilience to handle the demands of your life, whether that's sport, work, or just moving well day to day.

I prescribe specific strengthening programmes tailored to your diagnosis and goals, progressed at the right pace for where you're at. Exercises are delivered through Physitrack so you have clear instructions and videos available at home.

Imaging and Specialist Referral

When a scan or specialist opinion is needed, I can refer directly for X-ray and ultrasound. No GP required. For MRI or specialist consultation, I can provide the referral through the appropriate pathway. This keeps your care moving without unnecessary delays.

FAQ

Do you use all of these techniques in every session? No. Treatment is always based on your assessment findings. I use whatever combination of techniques will get you the best result for your specific problem.

Do I need to ask for a specific treatment? You don't need to know what you need. That's my job. But if there is something you would like or have found helpful in the past, then let me know. Come in, tell me what's going on, and I'll figure out the right approach after a thorough assessment.

Is dry needling painful? Most people feel a brief ache or twitch during dry needling, which is normal and usually passes quickly. It's generally well tolerated and many patients find significant relief after a session.

What is the difference between mobilisation and manipulation? Mobilisation is a slower, gentler technique. Manipulation is a quicker, more precise movement that often produces a clicking sound. Both aim to restore joint movement. I'll only ever use manipulation with your consent, and if you're not comfortable with it there are other effective options.

Do I need a referral to book? No. You can book directly online at limberphysio.co.nz.