The use of ice has sparked quite a debate, with some saying it can hinder your healing process and should be given the cold shoulder altogether. That perspective is a bit simplistic, as there are instances where the pros outweigh the possible cons.
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We're aware that inflammation plays a crucial role in the initial days of healing. A bunch of studies have found that popping anti-inflammatory meds (NSAIDs and corticosteroids) can throw a spanner in the works, as they tamp down inflammation.
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The most common argument against icing injuries is that ice has also been shown to reduce inflammation. This leads to the notion that ice might put a damper on the healing process.

​Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also bring along physical discomfort and emotional stress. Fortunately, expectant mothers can find solace in the healing powers of massage and acupuncture. These complementary therapies offer a range of benefits, promoting relaxation, alleviating common discomforts, and enhancing overall well-being during pregnancy. Let's explore the benefits of massage and acupuncture for pregnant women.

​It is essential to take time for self-care and to prioritise our well-being. If you're seeking a holistic approach to relaxation and pain relief, look no further than Neuromuscular Massage Therapy by the skilled hands of Nicky Spence at NorthWest Physio +. With her extensive knowledge and expertise, Nicky is dedicated to helping clients achieve optimal physical and mental health.

Pregnancy is an exciting and transformative time in a woman's life, but it can also come with a lot of physical discomfort and stress. That's where pregnancy massage comes in - a specialised form of massage that can help alleviate many of the common discomforts of pregnancy, such as back pain, swelling, and fatigue. And if you're in the Kumeu area, one great place to experience the benefits of pregnancy massage is at NorthWest Physio +, with experienced massage therapist Nicky Spence.

At Northwest Physio+, we specialise in quality, hands-on treatment alongside functional rehabilitation from experienced therapists. We will unlock the source of your pain and get you back to full function. ​Our new clinic in Whenuapai has recently been opened.

As a neuromuscular therapist at Northwest Physio Plus, Nicky Spence has provided the benefits of trigger point therapy for clients struggling with pain and discomfort. Trigger points are hyperirritable spots located in the skeletal muscles, which cause discomfort and pain which also refer pain to other parts of the body. Trigger point therapy involves applying pressure to these areas to release the tension and restore normal muscle function.

Trigger point therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including headaches, neck pain, lower back pain, shoulder pain, and even fibromyalgia. This therapy can also be used to manage pain and discomfort related to sports injuries, car accidents, and work-related injuries.

​Acupuncture is a traditional medicine that has been used for thousands of years to treat various health conditions. In recent years, acupuncture has gained popularity in Western countries as a treatment for chronic pain, including back pain. Back pain is a common presentation that affects millions of people worldwide, and acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating this type of pain.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points of the body. Traditionally these points are believed to be connected to energy pathways, or meridians, that run throughout the body. By stimulating these points, acupuncture is thought to balance the flow of energy and promote healing. More recent research has shown Aupuncture can stimulate the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms, including the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters. It may also improve circulation and reduce inflammation to promote healing.