Send us a text

What happens when a passion for fitness collides with a life-changing back injury? Jared, an aircraft engineer from Louisville, Kentucky, knows all too well. Join us as he opens up about the unexpected turn of events that began with a routine weightlifting mishap and led to a debilitating journey through back pain and sciatica. As Jared navigates the challenges of his demanding job while managing chronic pain, he shares the critical turning point when a sisterly suggestion to try physical therapy shifted his perspective on healing.

We hear firsthand accounts of individuals dealing with the harsh realities of recurring back pain post-surgery, unpeeling the layers of frustration and isolation that often accompany such conditions. These narratives offer a stark look at the emotional toll of chronic pain, the battle with medical systems, and the impact on personal relationships. Our conversations highlight the resilience and tenacity required to face these invisible yet life-altering conditions and emphasize the importance of finding the right treatment path amidst a maze of options.

Throughout the episode, the recurring theme is one of resilience and the slow, sometimes imperceptible, journey toward recovery. We discuss the role of physical therapy, the emotional challenges of balancing career aspirations with health constraints, and the invaluable support of understanding employers and family. By sharing these stories, our aim is to offer hope and encouragement, underscoring the power of patience, perseverance, and community in overcoming back injuries and more.

Support the show

Was this episode helpful to you? If you would like to support my work on the show, you can buy me a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/bedbackandbeyond
Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.

Send us a text

Join us for an enlightening episode of Bed Back and Beyond as we sit down with the inspiring Cara Dinote, a skilled acupuncturist whose journey into acupuncture and Chinese medicine is nothing short of fascinating. Cara's transition from studying psychology in Philadelphia to practicing acupuncture in San Diego showcases her dedication to holistic healing. We explore the pivotal role of qi, the vital life force in Chinese medicine, and how acupuncture harmonizes this energy to enhance physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. As the acceptance of acupuncture grows in the U.S., bolstered by medical research and increased insurance coverage, Cara's insights offer a compelling look at the merging of Eastern and Western medical philosophies.

In the second half of the episode, we uncover acupuncture's remarkable impact on pain management and recovery, through intriguing case studies, including a unique case involving spasms post-colonoscopy. Cara shares how acupuncture provides a holistic approach to complex medical conditions and post-surgery recovery. We also invite listeners to share their own positive recovery stories, fostering a community of hope and support. For those in San Diego looking to connect with Cara and experience her healing touch firsthand, visit her website, andaraacupuncture.com. As we wrap up, we express our gratitude for Cara's expertise and our shared commitment to a holistic path to wellness.

Support the show

Was this episode helpful to you? If you would like to support my work on the show, you can buy me a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/bedbackandbeyond
Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.

Send us a text

What if a simple round of golf changed your life forever? This episode of Bed Back and Beyond features Matt, a 34-year-old from New Jersey, who shares his compelling story of battling a severe back injury that spiraled into sciatic pain and debilitating symptoms like foot drop and pelvic tilt. Matt opens up about the frustrating journey through misdiagnoses and ineffective treatments before finding his path to the right medical professionals who finally provided the necessary surgical intervention.

Tune in to hear about Matt's remarkable recovery process, from the essential tools that eased his daily life post-surgery to the emotional rollercoaster of physical limitations and coping mechanisms. We discuss the crucial role of physical therapy, the importance of following medical restrictions, and the adjustments Matt made to return to work confidently. Matt's story is a testament to resilience, showing the importance of community support and sharing recovery stories to inspire others. Don't miss his hopeful outlook on returning to his beloved hobby of golfing, proving that perseverance can lead to renewed hope and joy.

Support the show

Was this episode helpful to you? If you would like to support my work on the show, you can buy me a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/bedbackandbeyond
Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.

Send us a text

Ever wondered what drives someone to get back on a motorcycle after multiple collisions? Meet Gallo, a resilient business owner from Reno, Nevada, who shares his incredible journey from tradesman and bartender to the proud owner of a live music venue called Sucias. Gallo's story is a testament to living life fully, despite the risks, and offers deep insights into the preciousness of pursuing what you love. Through his passion for motorcycle riding, Gallo embodies the spirit of our podcast’s mission: overcoming fear and finding hope and encouragement after injury.

Listen as Gallo recounts a harrowing motorcycle accident that left him with a broken femur and an unexpected hip discovery. Picture the intense crash, the initial shock, and the chaos that ensued, including his wife's frantic phone call and his subsequent blackout. Gallo's honest narrative sheds light on the grueling recovery process post-surgery, touching on the frustrations of hospital routines, pain management, and physical therapy. His candid reflections on the human aspects of recovery, such as maintaining normalcy in daily activities, make his story profoundly relatable.

Toward the end, we explore Gallo’s path to healing and acceptance through alternative therapies like hypnotherapy. Gallo reveals how working with a hypnotherapist helped him manage pain and addiction recovery, emphasizing the power of trust in therapeutic relationships. Highlighting the importance of living without fear, Gallo inspires listeners to consider similar healing paths. We invite you to share your own recovery stories on BedBackBeyond.com, fostering a community of shared experiences and mutual encouragement in the journey toward recovery.

Support the show

Was this episode helpful to you? If you would like to support my work on the show, you can buy me a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/bedbackandbeyond
Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.

Send us a text

What happens when a professional brewer's back gives out, and he's left immobilized for weeks? Eric Stuhlmacher's journey from severe back pain to resilience offers valuable lessons for anyone dealing with chronic pain. In this episode, Eric shares the raw, emotional highs and lows of living with a herniated disc. From a sudden immobilizing incident in February 2021 to another painful flare-up in August 2022, Eric's story is a testament to the power of perseverance. We delve into his commitment to physiotherapy, the physical and emotional challenges he faced, and the strategies that ultimately helped him manage his pain and reclaim his life.

Hear practical advice on managing chronic back pain, including effective home exercises that target hip flexors and hamstrings. Learn about the emotional toll of being unable to participate in family activities and how stress can exacerbate physical pain. Eric also touches on his personal experiences with cortisone injections, significant lifestyle changes, and his ambitious goals like backcountry snowboarding and pursuing a career in firefighting. Finally, we explore Eric's passion for brewing, his career transition, and how his journey can inspire others facing similar struggles. Don't miss this episode filled with hope, determination, and actionable insights.

Support the show

Was this episode helpful to you? If you would like to support my work on the show, you can buy me a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/bedbackandbeyond
Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.

Send us a text

Imagine being a successful business owner and mother, and then, in an instant, everything changes due to a devastating car accident. This episode of Bed, Back, and Beyond brings you the awe-inspiring story of Erica Sosna, who faced the unimaginable challenge of being paralyzed from the waist down after a car accident during a snowstorm in December 2022. Erica provides an unflinching account of her traumatic experience, from the terrifying 45 minutes trapped under a vehicle to the daunting realization of her spinal injury's long-term implications. Her narrative is a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the extraordinary resilience of the human spirit.

In our conversation, Erica delves into the emotional and physical hurdles she encountered on her road to recovery. She recounts the intense pain and isolation during her hospital stay, the grueling rehabilitation process, and the mental resilience required to regain mobility and find a new normal. Listeners will gain insight into the therapeutic approaches that played pivotal roles in her healing journey, including McTimoney chiropractic care, Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM), and acupuncture. Erica also speaks openly about the significant impact her injury had on her family dynamics, underscoring the importance of a supportive partner in navigating such life-altering events.

But Erica's story doesn't end with recovery. She bravely shares how she found purpose and strength in returning to her career and even launching a new podcast, “The Career Equation,” aimed at guiding others through their professional journeys. Erica’s story is not just one of survival but of adaptation and triumph, offering valuable insights and inspiration for anyone facing adversity. Join us for an episode filled with raw honesty, hope, and a testament to the power of resilience.

Support the show

Was this episode helpful to you? If you would like to support my work on the show, you can buy me a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/bedbackandbeyond
Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.

Send us a text

What happens when an athlete renowned for her energy and passion is suddenly sidelined by a crippling back injury? Join us on this episode of "Bed, Back and Beyond" as we explore the journey of Brittany, an avid volleyball player living in Philadelphia, whose life took an unexpected turn due to a severe back injury. Through her compelling story, we uncover the physical and emotional hurdles she faced, from the initial back pain in high school to the life-altering microdiscectomy surgery. Brittany's narrative sheds light on how she maintained her vibrant spirit and fought her way back to an active lifestyle.

Ever wondered what it feels like to go from the thrill of a volleyball game to the agony of a herniated disc? Hear about her personal battle with this excruciating condition and the tumultuous path through pain, medical consultations, and the eventual decision to undergo surgery. We delve into the complex emotions and the painstaking decisions involved, highlighting the critical role of health insurance and the small yet significant moments of humor during recovery, like savoring a dim sum meal post-surgery. This episode offers a raw and honest glimpse into the reality of dealing with severe back pain and the arduous journey towards healing.

Recovery doesn't end in the operating room; it's just the beginning. We dive deep into the post-surgery phase, emphasizing the importance of physical therapy and the struggle of overcoming obstacles like drop foot. Sharing my experiences and Brittany's, we discuss the mental and physical resilience required to navigate setbacks and the invaluable support from loved ones and sports communities. From setting realistic goals to relishing small victories, this episode provides a treasure trove of practical tips and heartfelt encouragement for anyone on the road to recovery.

Support the show

Was this episode helpful to you? If you would like to support my work on the show, you can buy me a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/bedbackandbeyond
Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.

Send us a text

S301 Could you imagine facing a severe back injury that threatens not only your physical well-being but also your career? Mahesh, a software engineer from Bengaluru, India, opens up about his journey of battling three bulging discs, navigating through initial misdiagnoses, and finally finding the right path to recovery with the help of an MRI. From enduring immense pain to discovering the power of physiotherapy and yoga, Mahesh's story highlights the importance of resilience and seeking multiple medical opinions for serious health issues. He shares how the COVID-19 pandemic added layers of complexity to his recovery, yet his unwavering determination led him back to normal activities by February 2021.

Explore the unique challenges Mahesh faced as he adapted his work environment and lifestyle to aid his recovery. Discover how he transitioned to a more active routine, incorporating standing desks and regular exercise like walking, yoga, and swimming, all guided by a dedicated physiotherapist. Mahesh’s story reinforces the value of a strong support system and self-discipline in preventing future injuries. Offering a message of hope, Mahesh emphasizes that recovery from a herniated disc is achievable without surgery. His journey serves as an inspiration to anyone facing similar challenges, encouraging listeners to remain optimistic and share their own stories to inspire others.

Support the show

Was this episode helpful to you? If you would like to support my work on the show, you can buy me a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/bedbackandbeyond
Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.