Back pain physio · Ponsonby
Lower back pain physio Ponsonby
Lower back pain is the most common reason people come to see us. Most cases settle well with the right plan, and if your back pain is injury-related ACC can cover it with no referral needed.
When back pain needs a doctor, not a physio
Get urgent medical care if your back pain comes with numbness around the saddle area (buttocks or genitals), weakness in both legs, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, unexplained weight loss or severe night pain. These are rare but need checking straight away.
Lower back pain treatment at our Ponsonby clinic
We assess what is actually driving your pain, treat it hands-on, and give you the few exercises that make the difference. The aim is to settle the pain and keep it from coming back, not endless passive appointments.
Is it back pain or sciatica?
If the pain stays in your back it is usually a muscle, joint or disc problem. If it shoots down your leg with numbness or pins and needles, that points to sciatica, where a nerve is irritated. The two often overlap, and we treat both.
Common causes we treat
Muscle and ligament strains, disc bulges, postural and desk-related pain, and the stiffness that builds up over years. Each needs a slightly different plan, which is why the assessment matters.
When should you see a physio?
If your back pain is limiting normal activity or has not eased after a few days, come in. Early treatment tends to mean a faster recovery. You do not need to wait it out or push through.
ACC and back pain
If your back pain comes from an injury, like a lift, a fall or a sports strain, ACC can cover it and you do not need a referral. We lodge the claim for you. See how ACC physio works and what it costs. Gradual, wear-and-tear back pain may not qualify as an injury, and we will tell you honestly either way.
How many sessions will I need?
Most acute back pain improves over about four to six weeks, and recurring or long-standing pain usually needs a bit longer. We set realistic expectations at the first visit and adjust as you progress.
Common questions
Is back pain covered by ACC? +
Should I rest or stay active with back pain? +
How many physio sessions will I need for back pain? +
Your team
You're in good hands
You'll be seen by a named, registered clinician who knows your case, not a different stranger each visit. Our multi-disciplinary team of physiotherapists, acupuncturists, massage therapists and Pilates instructors has cared for Ponsonby for over 16 years.
Zee Sharif
Lead Physiotherapist & Pilates Instructor
Hayden Tutbury
Practice Manager & Senior Physiotherapist
Mikhaela Cruz
Senior & Pelvic Floor Health Physiotherapist
Ella Stevenson
Physiotherapist
Charlotte Abbott
Physiotherapist
Our physiotherapists are registered with the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand. ACC and Southern Cross registered. No referral needed. Meet the full team.
Have a question?
Send us a message
Tell us what's going on and we'll come back to you within one business day.
Book a back pain assessment
We will find what is driving your pain and agree a plan to get you moving again.
Visit us
Our Ponsonby clinic
Return To Form Physio
179A Ponsonby Road
Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Entry on Franklin Road
ACC registered · Multi-disciplinary team · Treating Ponsonby for over 16 years