Low Back Pain Physiotherapy in Paraparaumu
Low back pain is the most common reason people visit a physiotherapist in New Zealand, and it is Bart's primary clinical focus. Whether your pain came on suddenly lifting something heavy, or has been building for months or years, physiotherapy at Limber Physio starts with understanding exactly what is going on and why.
Back pain has many different causes, and the treatment that helps most depends entirely on the diagnosis. Bart uses the McKenzie Method (MDT), a structured, evidence-based framework designed to diagnose and treat spinal pain, as the foundation of his assessment. This means your first appointment will give you answers, not just treatment.
Bart has personal experience with significant back injuries, having rehabilitated through potentially career-ending injuries as a competitive hockey player and golfer. That lived experience shapes how he approaches every patient dealing with back pain.
What Bart Treats | Low Back Pain
Acute and chronic low back pain
Sciatica and referred leg pain
Disc injuries and prolapsed discs
Sacroiliac joint pain
Facet pain
Muscle and ligament strains
Postural back pain from desk work or prolonged sitting
Back pain in active people, athletes, dancers, hockey players, cricketers, and golfers
Persistent or recurring back pain that hasn't responded elsewhere
Clinical Approach
Your assessment will include a detailed movement analysis to identify what movements ease or worsen your pain. From there, Bart will create a specific, practical plan, exercises you can do at home, hands-on treatment where needed, and clear guidance on what to do and avoid in the days ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a referral for back pain physio?
A: No. Physiotherapists in New Zealand are primary healthcare providers. You can book directly.
Q: Is back pain covered by ACC?
A: It depends on how it started. ACC covers injuries caused by a specific event or accident. Gradual onset back pain is usually private. Bart can assess your eligibility at your appointment.
Q: What is the McKenzie Method?
A: The McKenzie Method (MDT) is a structured, evidence-based system for assessing and treating spinal pain. It uses specific movement tests to pinpoint the source of your pain and guide treatment. Bart holds a Certificate in MDT from the McKenzie Institute.
Book your low back pain assessment at Limber Physio in Paraparaumu Beach.
Bart de Vries is a physiotherapist with over 15 years of clinical experience across elite sport, dance, and musculoskeletal practice. He holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Otago and a Certificate in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) from the McKenzie Institute. Bart practises at Limber Physio, located at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club on the Kapiti Coast.
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