If you're attending physiotherapy in Auckland, you’ve already taken a smart step toward recovery, whether it’s from an injury, surgery, or managing ongoing pain. Physiotherapy sessions are designed to improve movement, ease discomfort, and strengthen your body. But what happens after  your session can be just as important as the treatment itself. At Peak Pilates & Physio Auckland, we see great results when patients follow through with aftercare. However, we also see slower progress when key post-treatment habits are overlooked. To help you get the most out of your physiotherapy, here are the top mistakes to avoid after your session  — and why they matter. 1. Don’t Skip Your Home Exercises One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming that the work is done after they leave the clinic. But physiotherapy doesn’t stop at the door. Your physio will likely prescribe specific exercises to do at home — tailored to your recovery goals. These exercises are crucial in reinforcing what was done during your session and building long-term strength and mobility. What to do instead:  Stick to the prescribed home exercise programme. It’s part of your treatment and essential for recovery. Think of it as a continuation of your session, not an optional extra. 2. Don’t Push Through Sharp Pain It’s normal to feel a little sore after physiotherapy — your muscles have been activated and stretched. But if you’re feeling sharp, sudden or worsening pain , it’s a sign something isn’t right. Pushing through it can cause more harm and may aggravate the issue you’re trying to resolve. What to do instead:  Pay attention to your body. Communicate with your physio about any post-treatment pain that feels unusual. Recovery shouldn’t feel like injury. 3. Don’t Completely Rest (Unless Advised) Rest is important, but too much of it — especially after your physio session — can actually slow your recovery. Our bodies heal through movement. Unless your physiotherapist has advised you to avoid all activity, some level of movement will support circulation, reduce stiffness, and help your muscles and joints recover. What to do instead:  Engage in gentle movement. This could be a short walk, light stretching, or a Pilates routine adapted to your stage of recovery. At our Auckland clinics, we often pair physiotherapy with reformer Pilates to provide structured, low-impact movement that aids healing. 4. Don’t Return to Intense Activity Too Quickly Just because you’re feeling better doesn’t mean you’re fully healed. This is a common mistake — especially among active individuals. Returning to intense workouts or sports too soon can undo your progress and lead to reinjury. What to do instead:  Always check in with your physiotherapist before resuming high-impact or strenuous activities. They can guide you on how to safely ramp up your activity level based on your recovery progress. 5. Don’t Neglect Lifestyle Factors That Impact Healing Physiotherapy is just one part of the puzzle. Sleep, hydration, nutrition, and stress levels all influence how your body responds to treatment. Poor sleep or a high-sugar diet, for example, can make inflammation worse and delay recovery. What to do instead:  Support your treatment with healthy habits. Prioritise quality sleep, stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and manage stress through breathing techniques, mindfulness, or gentle exercise. 6. Don’t Miss or Delay Future Appointments Physiotherapy works best when it’s consistent. Missing follow-up appointments or delaying treatment can cause progress to stall or even go backwards. The body responds to regular, structured input — not stop-start treatment. What to do instead:  Try to attend all scheduled sessions. If something unavoidable comes up, reschedule promptly so your treatment stays on track. 7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions A good physio-patient relationship is based on open communication. If something doesn’t make sense or you’re unsure about what to do between sessions, ask. Many people stay silent and risk doing something incorrectly — or not doing anything at all. What to do instead:  At Peak Pilates & Physio Auckland , we encourage you to ask questions. Whether it’s about your exercises, expected soreness, or how to adjust your activity, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Passive Your recovery is a partnership. Physiotherapy lays the foundation, but your commitment to aftercare makes the biggest difference. Avoiding these common mistakes helps protect your progress and gives your body the best chance to heal efficiently. Whether you’re visiting us for sports physiotherapy, post-surgical rehab, or back pain treatment, we’re here to guide you — in the clinic and beyond. Looking for Trusted Physiotherapy in Auckland? At Peak Pilates & Physio Auckland, we combine expert physiotherapy with movement-based recovery like Pilates to help you recover smarter. With six convenient locations across Auckland, we make it easy to get the care you need, when you need it. Book your Physio session with Peak Physio Auckland  today and start feeling the difference. Peak Physio Auckland Locations: Physio Botany Physio Grey Lynn Physio St Johns Physio Silverdale Physio Parnell Physio St Heliers

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialised area of physiotherapy focused on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue that support the bladder, uterus or prostate, and bowel. These muscles form the “floor” of your core, playing a critical role in continence, posture, breathing, and overall wellbeing. At   Peak Physio Auckland , we see patients every day who are experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction — often silently — and looking for safe, effective, and evidence-based care. Whether you’re recovering post-birth, dealing with ongoing bladder or bowel concerns, or managing pain or tension in the pelvic region, our team is here to help. What Is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy? Pelvic floor physiotherapy involves assessment and treatment of the pelvic floor muscles and surrounding structures. These muscles can become weak, tight, or imbalanced due to various factors, including: Pregnancy and childbirth Surgery (including prostate surgery or hysterectomy) Menopause Chronic constipation High-impact exercise Persistent coughing Poor posture or lifting technique Stress and trauma Common Issues Treated by Pelvic Floor Physios Pelvic floor dysfunction isn’t always obvious. Some people may experience very clear symptoms, while others might dismiss their concerns as “normal” after childbirth or ageing. If you’re experiencing any of the following, pelvic floor physio can help: Bladder or bowel issues: Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, or exercise Needing to go urgently or frequently Difficulty emptying your bladder or bowels Constipation Prolapse symptoms: A sensation of heaviness or dragging in the pelvis Feeling a bulge in the vagina or rectum Pelvic pain or discomfort: Pain during intercourse Pain in the lower back, abdomen, or hips related to pelvic floor dysfunction Postnatal concerns: Diastasis recti (abdominal separation) Weak core and instability Pelvic floor weakness or incontinence post-birth What to Expect During a Pelvic Floor Physio Appointment Your initial appointment will involve a thorough discussion of your symptoms, health history, and goals. Your physiotherapist may conduct: A postural and movement assessment An abdominal and pelvic floor exam (external and/or internal, if appropriate and with consent) Breathing pattern analysis Muscle coordination and strength testing From there, we’ll design a personalised treatment plan. This might include pelvic floor muscle training, education, lifestyle advice, breathing and relaxation strategies, or integration with other services like Pilates. You can   book a pelvic health session directly online  at a clinic near you. Why Choose Peak Physio for Pelvic Floor Care in Auckland? We know pelvic floor issues are deeply personal. That’s why our pelvic health physios offer discreet, non-judgmental support, combining clinical expertise with compassion. With multiple locations across Auckland, we make it easier for you to access high-quality care close to home: Botany Grey Lynn St Johns Silverdale Parnell St Heliers Each clinic is equipped with experienced physiotherapists who understand the nuances of pelvic health and create a space where you feel safe and supported. How Long Does It Take to See Results? Recovery times vary depending on the nature and severity of your symptoms. Some people see improvement within a few weeks, while others may need ongoing support over several months. Consistency is key — and with guidance, education, and a tailored home program, many clients experience: Better bladder control Improved core strength and stability Relief from pelvic pain or discomfort Greater confidence in movement and daily life Is Pelvic Floor Physio Just for Women? Not at all. While postnatal women are a common group we see, pelvic floor physiotherapy can benefit anyone — including: Men recovering from prostate surgery Athletes with core dysfunction or breathing issues People of any gender experiencing pelvic pain or continence challenges If you're unsure whether it’s right for you, we’re happy to offer a confidential consultation to discuss your needs. Start Your Recovery with Peak Physio Pelvic floor concerns are common — but they’re not something you have to live with. With the right support, you can regain strength, control, and confidence. If you're ready to take the first step,   book an appointment online , or find your nearest Peak Physio location: Physio Botany Physio Grey Lynn Physio St Johns Physio Silverdale Physio Parnell Physio St Heliers