Overcoming Chronic Back Pain: My Journey to a Pain-Free Life
If you’re reading this, it's likely because you’ve been battling chronic back pain, and I genuinely understand your pain. You're not alone in this journey, and there is hope and a way forward. So, let’s embark on this path together!
My Back Pain Journey
Hi, I'm Helena, and I've been dealing with chronic back pain since my teens. If you've visited my Instagram profile, you might be surprised to learn about my personal struggle with pain.
I began ballet at three and continued until I was twenty-five. Dance was more than a hobby; it defined my identity. However, by sixteen, I faced persistent, excruciating lower back pain, which left me puzzled since other dancers seemed unaffected.
After every performance, I'd often find myself in bed, dependent on painkillers. High school and university years were a challenge as I studied lying down, frequently falling asleep. Perhaps, like me, you've sought relief from numerous specialists. Physiotherapy and osteopathy offered temporary relief, but the pain persisted.
An orthopedic surgeon once suggested (rather nonchalantly) that I might have one leg longer than the other and advised against dancing and high-impact activities. This disheartening news led me to quit dancing, plunging me into depression. It was tough giving up something I loved and struggling with simple outdoor activities due to my back pain.
Despite numerous tests and MRIs showing slight imperfections—like we all have as human beings—nothing confirmed the cause of my pain. My mornings often felt like my spine was glued together, making me feel decades older than I was.
The Impact of Chronic Back Pain
Back pain dictated my life, affecting social activities and relationships. The frustration of missing out and feeling misunderstood became my daily reality. Chronic pain can make you feel isolated and even affect your closest relationships, causing overreactions and misunderstandings.
There were moments when the pain was so overwhelming that I would have given years of my life for a pain-free body. My back pain impacted every aspect, including my romantic relationships, as I avoided intimacy. The emotional toll was significant, diminishing my dreams and aspirations.
Finding a Solution
Traditional treatments offered temporary relief until I discovered the importance of proper movement.
Discovering Pilates
At twenty-seven, I found Pilates, which focuses on core strength and flexibility, helping alleviate chronic back pain. However, I had to sort through overpriced and complicated studios to find the real essence of Pilates.
Movement-Based Therapies
My journey led me to explore movement-based therapies, balancing mobility, strength, and healthy habits.
Understanding Body Mechanics
Understanding body mechanics and the balance of strengthening and stretching exercises was crucial. Delving into skeletal muscle function and body biology helped me understand the interconnectedness of our systems and the importance of a holistic approach.
These insights transformed my approach to managing pain, focusing on sustainable, long-term strategies for overall well-being.
Empowering You Through Holistic Coaching
My experience led to the creation of "Beyond Back-Pain" where I empower women aged 30-45 to overcome chronic back pain through holistic coaching, helping them achieve a pain-free body full of strength, mobility, and flexibility.
In this blog, I'll share:
Strategies that helped me manage and reduce chronic back pain
Exercises that are effective in building strength and flexibility
Mindset shifts that support your journey to a pain-free life
You'll find actionable insights and practical tips to incorporate into your daily life for lasting relief.
By following these guidelines, you'll understand your body better and the role of movement in maintaining a healthy back. Simple adjustments in posture, lifestyle, and mindset can lead to profound improvements in your quality of life.
My goal is to empower you with knowledge and tools to control your pain and reclaim activities you love. Together, we’ll transform your identity from a chronic back pain sufferer to a pain-free person with lifelong healthy habits.
Warning: Embarking on this journey might have delightful side effects, including but not limited to a strong, lean, flexible, and mobile body and an overwhelming sense of empowerment. Proceed with passion and a smile!