04/03/2026
From Flare-Ups → Full Confidence, by Joshua - Osteopath BMSkH, PG.Dip.(Osteo).
Early in my career I started training in kickboxing with the intention of competing. I was lifting hard, pushing my conditioning, building toward something. Then during a deadlift session, I felt a sharp pain in my lower back.
A few weeks off, some treatment, gradual rehab, and I was back. I trusted the body’s ability to recover. But months later, I bent down to put my gym bag in the car and felt that same pain again.
That was the frustrating part. The weight didn’t match the reaction. It wasn’t a heavy lift. It was a simple, everyday task. Over the next year I had a few more episodes. I kept working. I even competed. But there was always a quiet fear in the background. A hesitation before bending. A question of “is this going to flare it up again?”
I never got imaging or a formal diagnosis. In the end, it didn’t matter.
What mattered was understanding that pain doesn’t always equal damage. My back wasn’t weak or broken. It had just become protective.
Instead of trying to fix it, I focused on building capacity. Gradually loading. Expanding tolerance. Rebuilding trust in my body. Osteopathic treatment helped calm things down when needed. Rehab built strength. Education reduced the fear.
Now my back is stronger than it’s ever been. I’m training to compete again and living without that constant anticipation of pain.
This experience reinforced something I deeply believe.
Recovery isn’t just about healing tissue. It’s about restoring confidence too.
That’s where osteopathy can make a real difference. Looking at the whole picture. Supporting the body, but also the mindset around it.
If you’re stuck in recurring flare-ups, know this. You’re not fragile. With the right approach, you can build yourself back stronger than before.
To book an appointment with me call 0272288683 or book online.
I'm available in Queenstown and Wanaka.
