Taking the first step toward addressing pelvic health concerns can feel overwhelming, and it’s completely normal to feel nervous about your initial appointment. Understanding what to expect can help ease those pre-appointment jitters and prepare you for a positive experience with your pelvic health physiotherapist.

What is Pelvic Health Physiotherapy?

Pelvic health physiotherapy is a specialised branch of physiotherapy that addresses a wide range of intimate health concerns. Our experienced physiotherapists provide treatment for bladder and bowel problems, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, erectile pain and dysfunction (Canterbury/North Cant only), as well as pregnancy and postnatal care. We also support patients before and after surgeries, including prostate and gynecological procedures.

Our pelvic health physiotherapists have invested significant time in advanced training to provide this specialised care safely, professionally, and respectfully.

Your First Appointment: Step by Step

Initial Welcome and Assessment

Your pelvic health physiotherapist will introduce themselves and guide you to a private treatment room. The session begins with a comprehensive discussion about your concerns and how they’re impacting your daily life. They will ask questions about all aspects of pelvic health (including bladder and bowel health, sexual function and pain), any musculoskeletal history, adn your hobbies, sports, and goals, to ensure we get the full picture.

We understand that discussing intimate health matters can feel uncomfortable, but our highly trained staff are skilled at creating a safe, supportive environment. If you’ve experienced trauma, please feel free to let us know how we can help make you feel more comfortable during our conversation.

Education and Explanation

Using diagrams and models, your physiotherapist will help you understand what might be happening with your body and explain the physical assessment process. This educational component ensures you’re fully informed before any examination takes place.

Physical Assessment

Depending on the issue you come and see us for, the physical assessment typically includes:

• Posture and breathing evaluation
• Movement assessment of your back, hips, and pelvis
• External examination of skin and muscle function

 Your physical assessment is personalised to each patient and may differ. 

Internal Examination (When Appropriate)

An internal vaginal or rectal examination may be recommended to thoroughly assess your symptoms. However, this examination is:

• Not mandatory
• May not occur during your first visit
• Always requires your explicit consent
• Can be declined without affecting your care

Before any internal exam, your physiotherapist will explain where your pelvic floor muscles are located, how they’re assessed, and the clinical reasoning behind the examination. You can withdraw your consent at any time during the process.

If you’re not comfortable with an internal exam, alternative external treatment options are available, though this may limit our ability to provide the most comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Planning

Once your assessment is complete, your physiotherapist will provide a personalised treatment programme tailored to your specific needs. This may include:

• Pelvic floor strengthening or relaxation exercises
• Self-help techniques and strategies
• Lifestyle modification advice
• Guidance on pelvic floor-safe exercise
• Use of specialised equipment such as biofeedback, TENS units, or dilators when appropriate

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring a support person? You’re welcome to bring a support person who can stay in the room during examinations if desired. If you’d like a chaperone but can’t bring someone, let us know in advance and we’ll arrange this for you.

Can I bring my children? Babies and toddlers are welcome in the treatment room, though we don’t provide childcare. Older children are welcome in the room or can wait quietly in the waiting area. Some parents prefer not to bring children to maintain privacy during the assessment.

What if I have my period? Having your period doesn’t prevent treatment. Internal assessments can still be performed if you’re comfortable, or we can focus on other aspects of your care. Note that pessary fittings cannot be done during menstruation (pessary fittings only available in Canterbury and North Canterbury)

How long is my initial appointment? Usually lasts up to one hour to allow for comprehensive consultation, assessment, education, and possibly initial treatment. You will also be given advice on home exercises and other self help measures.

Follow up appointments are typically up to 45 minutes each.

How many sessions will I need? While some patients notice improvements after the first session, permanent changes generally require time. Most patients benefit from an initial series of three to four treatments, followed by periodic check-ins. The complex nature of pelvic health conditions means success requires patience and active participation in your treatment program.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Ready to take the next step? 

Contact us to book your first pelvic health physiotherapy appointment and begin your path to better pelvic health.

ACC – Everything You Need to Know

We often see patients who are new to ACC and unsure where to start, so we’ve put together a simple guide to help you understand how it all works – and what it means for your treatment with us.

What is ACC?

ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) is New Zealand’s no-fault injury insurance scheme. It covers personal injuries caused by accidents, meaning ACC may pay part of your medical and rehabilitation costs following an injury.

ACC covers injury from sprains to permanent disability. They do not cover illnesses, diseases, infections, age-related conditions or non-work related gradual process injuries. Depending on your injury, ACC may pay a proportion of medical costs, provide assistance with home help, special aids or equipment, transport, therapy and support.

For services like physiotherapy, podiatry, and osteopathy, an accepted ACC injury means ACC contributes to the cost of your treatment, you simply pay a subsidised treatment fee instead of the full private price.

Who is Eligible for ACC?

ACC covers anyone injured in an accident in New Zealand – citizens, residents, temporary visitors, and overseas visitors.

If you’re a New Zealand resident who is injured overseas, ACC may help cover treatment once you’re back home.

An accident is defined as “a specific incident, event, or series of events that causes an injury to a person.”

Does the Injury Have to Have Occurred at Work?

No!

ACC is not just for workplace injuries. You can claim for an accident that happens:

• At home
• At the gym
• At the beach
• On the sports field

Anywhere, as long as it was caused by an accident

ACC Appointments at Active Health

Yes – we offer ACC subsidised appointments.

Active Health is an ACC-accredited clinic, and we offer both ACC and private appointments.

Our services include:

• Physiotherapy
• Podiatry
• Osteopathy
• Other allied health treatments

Do I Need a Referral from My Doctor/GP?

No referral needed

You can book straight in with us. We can lodge your ACC claim during your first appointment.

If you have a GP referral, feel free to bring it, but it’s not required. We’ll simply need to know:

• What happened
• When and where it happened
• How the injury occurred

We’ll assess, diagnose, complete the ACC forms, and send your claim through for you.

You should then receive confirmation after a few days when your claim has been accepted and registered – simple as that!

What if ACC doesn’t accept my claim?

If ACC declines your claim, standard treatment fees apply.

Our team will support you through the process and discuss your options, so your care remains as simple and stress-free as possible.

How the ACC Claim Process Works

1. Book your appointment – Online or by phone
2. Come to your appointment – We’ll ask about the details of your injury and assess your condition.
3. We lodge your claim – After providing a diagnosis, we’ll submit the ACC claim on your behalf.
4. Pay your subsidised fee – If the injury is covered, ACC pays part of the appointment fees, and you pay the rest.
5. Receive confirmation – If your claim is covered, ACC will text you and let you know. They may also send a letter, usually within a week.

Ready to Book an Appointment?

If you’ve got an injury that needs attention, you can book online today.

Still unsure whether your injury is ACC-related? Come in for an initial appointment and we’ll guide you through it.

You’re also welcome to contact us with any questions about ACC, injuries, or bookings.

The sooner you seek treatment, the better your recovery.

ACC cover means you can access professional care sooner – without carrying the full cost yourself.

Please note: While we aim to keep this information accurate, ACC policies can change. For the most up-to-date information, visit the ACC website or contact them directly.

We’re thrilled to announce that osteopathy services are now available at Active Health Christchurch! Luke, our experienced osteopath who works out in our Rangiora clinics, brings a unique combination of clinical expertise and real-world athletic experience to help you get back to pain-free movement and an active lifestyle.

Luke Reumers: From Competitive Athlete to Passionate Osteopath

Luke’s journey into osteopathy began during his own competitive sporting career when he discovered firsthand how effective osteopathic treatment could be. After experiencing the profound impact it had on his quality of life, he pursued a Master’s in Osteopathy to help others achieve the same results.

Originally from New Plymouth but now calling the South Island home, Luke is an avid trail runner currently training for a 100km ultra marathon. His diverse sporting background – from competitive sports growing up to trail running, hiking, bouldering, and gym training today – gives him unique insight into the physical demands his patients face, whether you’re a weekend warrior or simply want to move through daily life without pain.

A Whole-Body Approach to Your Health

Luke works with patients of all ages (5 years and older) using a comprehensive range of hands-on techniques including:

• Joint mobilisation and articulation
• Joint manipulations
• Soft tissue manipulation and release
• Fascial release
• Craniosacral therapy

But osteopathy at Active Health goes beyond manual treatment. Luke understands that movement, mobility, and strength are essential for pain management and longevity. His treatment plans incorporate exercise prescription alongside advice on nutrition, supplements, sleep, and stress management – addressing the whole person, not just the symptoms.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic discomfort or recovering from an acute injury, Luke’s goal is to get you back to pain-free living as quickly as possible while preventing future issues.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Luke takes a thorough, personalised approach to every patient. Your consultation will include:

• Comprehensive assessment of your pain, movement patterns, and muscle function
• Education about your condition and what’s causing it
• Customised treatment and rehabilitation plan
• Self-management strategies you can use at home
• Optional gym-based rehabilitation support

Each treatment plan considers your physical factors, lifestyle, and personal goals to improve the quality, frequency, and duration of daily movement – without pain or injury holding you back.

No Referral Needed – ACC Accredited

Active Health is an ACC-accredited clinic, which means you can book directly with Luke without needing a referral. We can provide and lodge your ACC claim forms at your first visit, making the process simple and stress-free. If you have a GP referral, feel free to bring it along, but it’s not required. Some private health insurers also cover osteopathy services.

Why Choose Luke at Active Health Christchurch?

Luke’s passion for osteopathy shines through in every appointment. He genuinely loves meeting people from all walks of life and helping them improve their quality of life through better movement and pain management. His belief that regular movement, sport, and play are essential parts of a healthy lifestyle drives his holistic approach to treatment.

At Active Health, we take a collaborative approach to restore your physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Our goal is to help you move better, prevent injuries, and stay active for life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?

A: No referral is needed. You can book directly with Luke at Active Health Christchurch. If you have a GP referral, feel free to bring it along, but it’s not required.

Q: Is osteopathy covered by ACC?

A: Yes! Active Health is ACC-accredited. We can provide and lodge your ACC claim forms at your first visit. If ACC doesn’t accept your claim, standard treatment fees apply.

Q: How long does an osteopathy session take?

A: Initial consultations are 45 minutes to allow for a thorough assessment and treatment. Follow-up appointments are 30 minutes.

Q: What should I wear to my appointment?

A: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy movement. You may be asked to perform certain movements during your assessment.

Q: How many treatments will I need?

A: This varies depending on your condition and goals. Some patients experience relief after one session, while others benefit from a series of treatments. Luke will discuss a realistic treatment plan with you during your initial consultation.

Q: What ages does Luke treat?

A: Luke works with patients aged 5 years and older, from children to seniors and everyone in between.

Q: Can osteopathy help with sports injuries?

A: Absolutely. With his background as a competitive athlete and current ultra-marathon training, Luke has extensive experience treating sports-related injuries and helping athletes return to peak performance.

Ready to Get Moving Again?

If you’re experiencing pain, tightness, or feel like your body isn’t moving as it should, Luke is here to help. Book your osteopathy appointment at Active Health Christchurch today.

Prostate cancer is one of those topics many men prefer not to think about – until they have to. It’s often talked about quietly, but it’s something worth bringing into the open. In New Zealand, prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men, with more than 4,000 new cases every year. The prostate itself is a small gland about the size of a walnut, sitting just below the bladder and surrounding part of the urethra. It helps produce semen and plays an important role in fertility.

While hearing the word “cancer” can be scary, there’s a lot of positive news. Prostate cancer is usually slow-growing, and thanks to early detection and effective treatments, survival rates are very high – around 96 percent of men are still alive five years after diagnosis. That said, early awareness really matters. Knowing your family history and keeping up with regular check-ups can make a big difference, especially for men with a father, brother, or son who’s been diagnosed.

Because of this, the PSA test isn’t a diagnosis on its own. Instead, it’s a useful starting point. If the results are elevated, your doctor may suggest more testing, such as imaging or a biopsy, to get a clearer picture. It’s also important to have a proper chat with your GP before getting tested. They can explain the benefits and limitations of PSA testing and help you make an informed decision based on your age, health, and family history.

If prostate cancer is diagnosed, there are several treatment options available, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Common treatments include surgery (prostatectomy), radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. All of these can be very effective in treating the cancer, but they can also come with side effects that affect your day-to-day life.

One of the most common issues after prostate surgery is urinary incontinence – difficulty controlling your bladder. Almost all men experience some degree of leakage in the early weeks after surgery, though it usually improves with time and the right support. Erectile dysfunction and changes to bladder or bowel function can also occur, especially after surgery or radiation. Hormone therapy, which lowers testosterone levels, can lead to fatigue, mood changes, and weight gain.

There are also newer, less invasive treatments being explored, such as the NanoKnife procedure, which uses electrical pulses to destroy cancer cells. It’s showing some promising results, though it’s not yet widely available in New Zealand.

For men with small, slow-growing cancers, another approach called active surveillance can be a good option. This means keeping a close eye on the cancer with regular testing and scans, rather than jumping straight into treatment. Many men live for years without needing surgery or radiation. Alongside medical monitoring, making positive lifestyle changes – being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and managing stress – can help improve overall health and long-term outcomes.

This is where pelvic health physiotherapists come in.

Many people are surprised to learn that physiotherapists can play a big role in prostate cancer recovery – and even before treatment begins. A pelvic health physiotherapist has specialised training in the muscles, nerves, and connective tissues of the pelvic region. These muscles support your bladder, bowel, and sexual function, so keeping them strong and well-coordinated is key to recovery. To learn more about the pelvic floor muscles check out this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQQSqLCF12g

Starting pelvic floor exercises before surgery has been shown to improve bladder control and speed up recovery afterwards. Physiotherapists teach you how to correctly identify and activate the pelvic floor muscles (which isn’t always as easy as it sounds) and provide guidance tailored to your needs. They also offer support for bowel health, bladder retraining, fluid management, and strategies for managing erectile changes.

If you or someone you know is preparing for prostate surgery or managing recovery, it’s never too early (or too late) to see a pelvic health physiotherapist. Taking proactive steps now can make a world of difference to your long-term wellbeing and quality of life.

Get in touch with Active Health Christchurch or Active Health Rangiora below or give us a call! 

Struggling with constipation? You’re not alone. Constipation is a very common condition that affects people of all ages, from young children to older adults. Understanding how your bowels work and what causes constipation can help you manage it effectively and get back to feeling your best.

How Do Your Bowels Work? Understanding the Digestive Process

What Is Constipation? Signs and Symptoms

Constipation is when a person passes hard, lumpy, and often large stool, typically less than once a day. If you’re experiencing painful bowel movements or straining to pass stool, you may be dealing with constipation.

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation occurs when:

• Dehydration: Too little fluid has been consumed, forcing the body to draw more water from the stool, making it harder and more difficult to pass.
• Low fibre intake: Not enough fibre in the diet. Fibre helps form the stool, soften it, and propel it along the gut—it’s essential for healthy digestion.
• Ignoring the urge: The urge to pass stool is ignored. After about 10 minutes, the urge to go passes, but the stool stays in the rectum and becomes harder.

Understanding the Constipation Cycle

These factors, either alone or together, cause hard and lumpy poo which can be painful to pass. When stool is painful to pass, the body remembers this and withholds stool. A “poo traffic jam” can build up, which stretches the rectum. Over time, people lose the urge to poop, causing further buildup of hard, firm stool and worsening constipation. A vicious cycle then develops.

Can constipation cause accidents? Yes. In some people, faecal accidents can occur as liquid poo slides past the hard poo and seeps into the underwear. People, especially children, are often unaware this has happened.

The Constipation Cycle: How It Starts and Why It’s Hard to Break

Understanding the constipation cycle is key to breaking free from chronic bowel issues. This cycle can affect anyone, but it’s particularly common in children and older adults. The medical term for this cycle is encopresis when it results in stool leakage.

The 5 Stages of the Constipation Cycle

Stage 1: Uncomfortable Defecation The cycle begins when passing stool becomes uncomfortable or painful. This might be due to pain from hard stool or avoidance because of a social event or unfamiliar bathroom. The discomfort creates anxiety about future bowel movements.

Stage 2: Holding Onto Stool Here’s what happens next: Your body remembers the pain. To avoid repeating the uncomfortable experience, the person (often unconsciously) begins holding onto stool and ignoring the urge to go. This is especially common in children who may withhold stool to avoid discomfort.

Stage 3: Increased Water Absorption in the Rectum When stool stays in the rectum longer than it should, the colon continues doing its job – absorbing water. The longer the stool remains, the more water is drawn out, making it progressively harder and drier.

Stage 4: Hardening of Stool As more water is absorbed, the stool becomes increasingly hard and lumpy. This makes it even more difficult and painful to pass, reinforcing the desire to hold on. A “poo traffic jam” builds up, and the problem worsens.

Stage 5: Increased Difficulty Passing Stool Now the cycle loops back to the beginning. The hard, large stool is even more uncomfortable to pass than before, strengthening the urge to withhold. And so the vicious cycle continues, with each rotation making the problem worse.

What Happens When the Cycle Continues

As the cycle repeats, serious complications develop:

Rectum Distension: The rectum becomes more and more distended (stretched) from the accumulating stool. This constant stretching damages the rectum’s ability to function normally.

Overflow Incontinence: In some cases, particularly in children, the buildup becomes so severe that liquid stool begins to seep around the hard, impacted mass. This is called “stool leakage” or overflow incontinence and causes faecal accidents where liquid poo slides past the blockage and leaks into underwear.

Loss of Rectal Sensation: The stretched rectum gradually loses sensitivity and can no longer send proper signals to the brain.

Loss of Urge to Defecate: People gradually lose the natural urge to poop. Without this signal, even more stools accumulates, becoming harder and larger.

Enlarged Intestines: Over time, chronic constipation can cause the intestines to become enlarged, further complicating the problem.

Difficulty Starting Bathroom Trips: The child or adult may develop significant difficulty initiating bathroom trips, creating behavioural challenges around toileting.

Breaking the Cycle

The good news? This cycle can be broken. The strategies outlined in this guide – proper hydration, adequate fibre, responding to urges, correct positioning, and when necessary, medical intervention – work together to reverse this process. With consistent application of these techniques, the rectum can gradually return to normal size and sensitivity, restoring healthy bowel function.

9 Proven Ways to Manage Constipation Naturally

2. Increase Your Fibre Intake

How much fibre do you need? Children aged 4-8 need 15-20g of fibre per day, progressing to adults who need 25-30g fibre per day.

Best high fibre foods for constipation:

• Beans and legumes
• Nuts and seeds
• Bran and wholemeal foods
• Fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens, pears, and kiwifruit

Easy fibre tip: Little swaps like brown bread instead of white bread can quickly increase your fibre intake.

Bonus benefits of fibre: Fibre also has other health benefits, such as increasing the sense of fullness (helping with weight management), and reducing risks of diabetes and heart disease.

3. Stay Active and Exercise Regularly

Physical activity helps constipation. Even a gentle walk each day can help keep your bowels regular and improve digestive function.

4. Consider Laxatives When Needed

When should you use laxatives? Laxative medications can help keep stool soft and easy to pass. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about these options to find the right treatment for your situation.

5. Don’t Ignore the Urge to Go

When you feel the urge to go to the toilet, it’s important to listen and go. Delaying bowel movements can worsen constipation.

Tip for parents: For children, having toys to play with in the toilet can lessen the disappointment of leaving their other toys, making them less likely to defer.

6. Use the Proper Toilet Posture

The right position can make a significant difference in how easily you pass stool:

• Elevate your knees higher than hips – This changes the angle of the rectum from being bent (good for continence) to being straight (better for elimination). Consider using a footstool.
• Relax your elbows on your knees – This relaxes the body and reduces straining
• Take a deep breath in and then say “MOOO” – This helps propel the stool easily by using the abdominal muscles in the correct pattern
• For kids: Blowing toys like bubbles and whistles have the same effect and make toilet time fun

7. Try Abdominal Massage for Constipation

Gentle abdominal massage can help stimulate bowel movements and provide natural constipation relief.

8. Be Aware of Other Factors That Affect Constipation

Several things can contribute to constipation:

• Medications: Some medications can affect movements through the bowel
• Travel: Changes in routine and diet can trigger constipation
• Stress: Periods of high stress can impact digestive function

9. When to See a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist

Pelvic floor physiotherapists specialise in bowel and bladder health. They can help with constipation and other issues related to defecation, providing personalised treatment strategies.

Take Control of Your Digestive Health

Constipation doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. By understanding how your bowels work and implementing these evidence-based management strategies, you can break the cycle and restore healthy bowel habits. Remember, if constipation persists despite these measures, consult with your healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions.

Start today: Choose one or two strategies from this list and begin incorporating them into your daily routine. Your digestive system will thank you!

Need Professional Support?

If you need help managing constipation or have concerns about your bowel health, our pelvic health team is here to support you. We offer personalised assessment and treatment strategies to help you or your child achieve better digestive health.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

This information is for educational purposes. Always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider for medical advice tailored to your individual situation.