Grateful for Relief: Overcoming Chronic Back Pain

As Thanksgiving approaches, many reflect on what they are thankful for. For some, it may be the absence of chronic pain, a feeling that Mona Charen, policy editor of The Bulwark, has recently experienced. After suffering from debilitating back pain for decades, Charen now finds herself free from the affliction that once dominated her life.

Charen recalls a time when back spasms would leave her in excruciating pain, lasting days or even weeks. Despite the physical challenges, she reflects on the peculiar nature of back pain, which often affects individuals differently. While one person may exhibit clear signs of spinal issues, another may have a perfectly normal X-ray yet still suffer intense pain.

Back pain is a widespread issue. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 80% of Americans will experience low back pain at some point in their lives. At any given moment, around 26% of the population is dealing with this condition, which ranks as the world’s leading cause of disability. The financial implications are staggering, with annual costs related to back pain reaching approximately $250 billion.

For Charen, traditional remedies such as heat therapy, massage, and physical therapy provided only temporary relief. It was only after discovering a knowledgeable trainer through a personal connection that she began to see lasting results. Under the trainer’s guidance, she engaged in exercises aimed at strengthening her core muscles, which provided the necessary support and stability for her lower spine.

The process involved a combination of strength training and stretches, enabling her to achieve better overall physical stability. “I am not presuming to offer medical advice,” Charen states, acknowledging that not all back problems can be addressed through exercise. However, she emphasizes that for many individuals without serious underlying conditions, core training can be transformative.

Now, three years since her last severe episode, Charen is grateful to enjoy life without the constant worry of back pain dictating her activities. The upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, once a source of anxiety due to the physical demands of meal preparation, is now a time of celebration without fear of triggering a painful episode.

For individuals seeking alternatives to personal training, Charen highlights the effectiveness of Pilates, which focuses on core strength. Additionally, she recommends the works of spine specialist Robin McKenzie, whose books are accessible for those looking to understand and manage their back pain more effectively.

As she prepares for the holiday, Charen’s gratitude extends beyond her personal experience. She hopes her insights can assist others struggling with similar issues. With a renewed sense of freedom and strength, she embraces the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving without the limitations that once defined her life.