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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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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

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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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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.

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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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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.

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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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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.

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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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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.

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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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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.

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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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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.