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When Susan first felt pain in the back of her leg in 2018, she had no idea a tiny disc herniation would nearly destroy her life. After losing 100 pounds, the 34-year-old healthcare worker expected to feel better, not worse. Instead, she found herself unable to sit, sleep through the night, or live without constant agony from sciatic nerve pain.

Susan takes us through her 14-month journey of seeking help while fighting a healthcare system that initially dismissed her as "too young" for surgery. The pain became so unbearable that she contemplated suicide, revealing the profound mental health impact that chronic back pain can inflict. Though cortisone injections provided temporary relief, they became less effective over time, reinforcing her need for a more permanent solution.

Following her microdiscectomy, Susan experienced what many surgical patients do - continued pain that made her question whether the procedure had worked. But after eight weeks, something remarkable happened - the pain disappeared. Now five years post-surgery, she remains essentially pain-free and has transformed her life completely. A woman who once avoided the outdoors due to anxiety now kayaks, hikes challenging terrain, and embraces physical activities she never imagined possible.

This episode offers something critical for those considering or recovering from disc surgery: proof that long-term success is possible. Susan's powerful testimony reminds us not to let surgical statistics intimidate us - the 80% success rate represents real people who found their way back to living fully. If you're struggling with herniated disc pain or recovery, this conversation will restore your hope that life can indeed return, possibly better than before.

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Have a positive story of recovery to tell? Head over to https://bedbackbeyond.com/share-your-story/ to apply.

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Phil shares his 30-year journey through four back surgeries, from a herniated disc at age 22 to a successful spinal fusion in his fifties, proving that recovery and returning to an active lifestyle is possible with the right approach.

• Developed first herniated disc at L5-S1 at age 22 despite being very fit and active
• Underwent laminectomy followed by microdiscectomy at L4-5 four years later
• Returned to full athletic activity after surgeries, even running the LA marathon
• Successfully advocated for himself through the healthcare system to avoid lengthy delays
• Experienced third herniation requiring another microdiscectomy, followed by fusion six months later
• Found fusion recovery surprisingly manageable with proper preparation and the right surgeon
• Achieved complete pain relief following each surgery, including fusion
• Emphasizes importance of physical therapy for optimal recovery
• Advises not waiting too long for surgical intervention when clearly needed
• Recommends being in good physical condition before surgery for better outcomes

If you have a positive story of recovery from a serious back or neck injury, please visit bedbackbeyond.com and click "share your story" to be featured on the show.

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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.

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Back surgery recovery involves unexpected challenges that doctors rarely explain beforehand, from extreme boredom to the misconception that you'll immediately wake up pain-free. I share personal insights and practical tips to better prepare mentally and physically for the recovery journey following microdiscectomy.

• Prepare for boredom during recovery by planning brain-stimulating activities beyond passive TV watching
• Understand that waking up with pain doesn't mean your surgery failed—nerves can remain angry and inflamed for months
• Expect pain to potentially return at 2 weeks (due to inflammation) and 6-8 weeks (when movement restrictions ease)
• Recovery follows a non-linear pattern with many ups and downs—not a steady improvement curve
• "No bending, lifting or twisting" doesn't mean becoming completely stiff—small movements are actually beneficial
• Consider practical bathroom solutions like toilet seat risers and bidets for easier post-surgery hygiene
• Prepare for significant mental and emotional challenges, including anxiety about reherniation
• Explore resources like "New Possibilities" book and Bed Back and Beyond YouTube channel for guidance and inspiration

For more preparation tips, check out my "How to Prepare for Your Microdiscectomy" video with a room-by-room walkthrough on my YouTube channel, Bed Back and Beyond.

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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.

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Andrew shares his transformative journey through chronic back pain, detailing the various treatments he pursued and the lessons learned along the way. His experience emphasizes the importance of understanding one's body, promoting a proactive approach to recovery that extends beyond surgical options. 
• Andrew's initial injury working in construction 
• The emotional and physical toll of chronic pain 
• Various treatments explored, from traditional to unconventional 
• Discovering Dr. Jeff’s High Performance Spine Program 
• Empowerment through understanding body mechanics and movement 
• Andrew’s transition to coaching and helping others recover 
• The take-home message of hope: not all pain requires surgery

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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.

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Jessa shares her heartfelt journey of battling back pain due to a herniated disc, navigating from chiropractic care to ultimately undergoing successful surgery. Her story highlights the importance of seeking proper diagnosis, advocating for oneself, and finding community support in the journey towards recovery. 
• Jessa’s history of back issues beginning in her 20s 
• The challenges of receiving proper diagnosis and treatment 
• Insight into chiropractic care versus medical intervention 
• Emotional impact of living with ongoing pain 
• Decision-making process leading to herniated disc surgery 
• Recovery experience and the significance of post-surgical support 
• Returning to physical activities while maintaining caution 
• Jessa’s message of hope and encouragement for others facing similar struggles

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.

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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.

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S3009 Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jeff, the trailblazer behind High Performance Spine, as he shares his transformative journey from a devastating back injury to revolutionizing non-surgical back pain treatments. Dr. Jeff's story is not just about overcoming personal adversity; it's about breaking new ground in the understanding and treatment of herniated discs. We unpack the fascinating insights from a 2010 study that changed the game by revealing how specific movement patterns and increased blood flow can dramatically improve disc conditions. This episode promises to equip you with knowledge that challenges the status quo of conventional therapies and offers hope to those burdened by chronic pain.

Learn how innovative remote programs have changed the lives of people worldwide, including an inspiring story from Australia. Discover the power of addressing faulty movements and promoting healing through targeted exercises, even from the comfort of home. Dr. Jeff's methods have been put to the test with remarkable success, proving that recovery is possible without invasive procedures. We delve into stories of individuals who found relief after years of pain, highlighting the critical role of personalized treatments and the potential for complete recovery without surgery.

We also explore the holistic elements essential for long-term back pain recovery. Dr. Jeff discusses the importance diet, mindset, and how happiness are is integral to reducing inflammation and promoting healing. With a bold promise of improvement or your money back, Dr. Jeff's program stands as a beacon of hope for those who have exhausted all other options. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a new perspective on healing and recovery, offering encouragement and empowerment to reclaim a pain-free life.
Vist www.highperformancespine.com for more information.

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.

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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.

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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.