From Chronic Pain to Healing: My Journey to Discovering the Power of Bodywork

I lived with constant tension in my body for years. Chronic headaches, tight neck and shoulders, a weak lower back, tight hips, and collapsed arches in my feet were part of my daily life. My core didn’t function properly, and I struggled with chronic inflammation in my gut, aching joints, and brain fog. Despite trying various medical and therapeutic treatments, nothing seemed to provide lasting relief. I was in my late thirties but felt like I was sixty. Frustrated, I realized my body was rebelling against me, and I needed to find a solution.

This post shares my personal journey from chronic pain to healing, highlighting the key changes that helped me reclaim my health and quality of life. If you feel sick and tired of feeling sick and tired, this story might inspire you to explore bodywork as a path to relief.

Recognizing the Root Causes of My Pain

For a long time, I accepted my discomfort as normal. I thought headaches, tight muscles, and fatigue were just part of getting older or working too hard. But the pain kept worsening, and I knew I had to dig deeper.

Two main issues stood out:

• Diet: I discovered that gluten and sugar were major contributors to my chronic inflammation and gut problems. Cutting these out made a noticeable difference in my energy and digestion.

  
  

• Posture and Alignment: My head was not properly aligned on my neck, which created tension throughout my body. This misalignment affected my shoulders, back, and even my feet.

  
  

Understanding these factors was the first step toward healing. It showed me that pain is often a signal, not just a symptom to mask.

Finding the Right Practitioner Made All the Difference

After trying many treatments, I found an osteopath who specialized in cranial-sacral therapy. Unlike the forceful adjustments I had experienced before, her approach was gentle and precise. She didn’t rely on big cracks or manipulations. Instead, she focused on subtle movements to realign my head and neck.

With my head sitting straight, the tension in my body began to release. The change was incredible. It wasn’t an overnight fix, but over the next couple of years, I slowly unwound the holding patterns my body had developed.

This experience taught me the value of finding the right practitioner who listens and works with your body’s unique needs.

Gentle cranial-sacral therapy session in a peaceful room

Why I Chose to Become a Remedial Massage Therapist

Inspired by my healing journey, I considered becoming an osteopath to help others reduce pain and improve their lives. After discussing with my chiropractor, we agreed that remedial massage therapy was a better fit for me.

I trained and qualified as a remedial massage therapist ten years ago. Since then, I have helped many people find relief from pain and tension through bodywork. This career has deepened my understanding of the body and how to support its natural healing processes.

How Bodywork Changed My Life

Today, I feel much more integrated in my body. I still have work to do, especially with my feet, but I rarely get headaches anymore. I can run 5 to 10 kilometers without pain and lift heavy boxes without fear of injuring my back.

Bodywork helped me:

• Release chronic tension in my neck, shoulders, and hips

• Improve posture and alignment

• Reduce inflammation and brain fog

• Strengthen my core and lower back

• Support my feet’s arches and overall balance

  
  

This transformation took time and patience, but it was worth every step.

What You Can Do If You Feel Stuck in Pain

If you are frustrated and tired of feeling sick and tired, consider exploring bodywork. Here are some practical steps to get started:

• Evaluate your diet: Notice if certain foods like gluten or sugar worsen your symptoms. Try reducing or eliminating them to see if you feel better.

  
  

• Check your posture: Pay attention to how your head, neck, and shoulders align. Small changes can make a big difference.

  
  

• Find a skilled practitioner: Look for therapists who use gentle, precise techniques like cranial-sacral therapy or remedial massage.

  
  

• Be patient: Healing takes time. Your body may need months or even years to unwind old patterns.

  
  

• Stay active: Gentle exercise like walking or running can support your progress.