Send us a Text Message.

What happens when a passionate marathon runner is suddenly sidelined by a herniated disc? Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Loretta, a dedicated mother and ultra marathoner, whose life took a drastic turn due to a severe back injury. Discover how Loretta navigated the tumultuous path from intense physical activity to being immobilized by pain, and the emotional toll of such a sudden shift in her life. From the thrill of completing ultra marathons to the frustration of daily struggles, Loretta's story is a testament to human resilience and the will to overcome.

Loretta opens up about her relentless search for relief, detailing her experiences with urgent care treatments, chiropractic adjustments, and physical therapy. She shares the highs and lows of trying to find an effective solution, including the pivotal moment when an MRI revealed the severity of her condition. Her journey underscores the importance of self-advocacy and persistence in a healthcare system that can often be challenging to navigate. You'll hear about the relentless pain, the complex decisions around potential treatments, and the critical support systems that helped her along the way.

The road to recovery post-surgery is fraught with both triumphs and setbacks, and Loretta doesn't shy away from sharing the raw reality of her experience. She discusses the significance of patience, managing expectations, and the slow, determined return to physical activities. Loretta's narrative highlights the power of community and the joy found in connecting with others who share similar struggles. Her inspiring story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance, support, and a positive mindset, it's possible to reclaim one's life even after serious injury. Don't miss this heartfelt episode that celebrates the strength and tenacity required to overcome severe back pain and find hope on the path 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 Message.

S02#11 What if battling excruciating pain far from home could spark a story of incredible resilience and hope? Meet Adithi Udupa, a postdoctoral researcher from India now in Sweden, who faced the daunting challenge of a herniated disc while pursuing groundbreaking work in quantum computing. From emergency room visits to maintaining a positive outlook, Adithi's journey embodies the spirit of determination and perseverance.

In our conversation, Adithi openly shares the hurdles she faced in both her personal and professional life. As one of the few women in the male-dominated field of quantum computing, she reveals the significance of representation and the barriers she overcame from her academic days in Bangalore to her current research endeavors. Our discussion also takes a heartfelt turn as Aditi recounts her experiences with various treatments for her back issues, including physiotherapy and Ayurveda, along with the significant challenges posed by symptoms like foot drop and severe leg weakness.

Adithi's story of recovery is a testament to the power of community and resilience. She opens up about the emotional complexities of accepting help, the importance of strength training, and the role of consistent self-care in her journey. Her positive mental attitude, buoyed by encouraging recovery stories from our podcast, serves as a beacon of hope for anyone navigating similar health struggles. Tune in for an episode filled with personal inspiration, professional passion, and an unyielding message of hope.

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 Message.

Ever wondered how a seasoned yoga teacher overcame chronic back pain without surgery, and developed a groundbreaking technique in the process? In this episode, Yogi Aaron shares his incredible journey from debilitating back pain to becoming a pain-free yoga specialist. We discuss how his active youth and initial stiffness led him to yoga, and how he ultimately founded Blue Osa Yoga Retreat and Spa in Costa Rica. Learn about Ayama, Aaron's innovative yoga method focused on muscle activation for improved balance and strength, and how it has transformed the lives of many suffering from chronic pain.

Join us as we take a spiritual and physical journey to the Himalayan mountains with Aaron, where a near-fatal accident profoundly influenced his approach to yoga. Hear about the life-changing moment involving a falling boulder near Gangotri and how Aaron's yoga practice helped him manage this crisis. We'll explore the importance of embracing discomfort and the adaptability required in yoga, especially when physical demonstrations are impossible. Aaron's trips to India are more than just a travel story—they're a testament to the healing power of yoga and spiritual connection.

Discover the critical role of muscle activation in overcoming chronic pain and dispelling common misconceptions about muscle function. Aaron explains how his book "Stop Stretching" and the development of Applied Yoga Anatomy and Muscle Activation (AYAMA) came from his personal experiences with pain and recovery. Through inspiring stories and practical advice, this episode offers invaluable insights for anyone seeking to live a pain-free life through yoga. Tune in and uncover the secret to proper muscle contraction, stability, and a healthier, stronger body.

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.