Chronic Doesn't mean stuck
Because pain may be part of the story—but it’s not the end of it.
My Story: Living Strong with Spinal Fusion & Chronic Knee Pain
In 2008, while preparing for deployment to Afghanistan, I injured my lower back. I thought it was just temporary. I pushed through the pain, focused on the mission, and carried on.
By 2011, I even ran the Army 10-Miler, thinking I was finally in the clear. But not long after that race, the pain returned—with a vengeance.
Over the next few years, I tried everything:
➡️ Pain management
➡️ Physical therapy
➡️ Sciatic nerve treatments
I did what most soldiers do—I kept going, even through the discomfort. But after a hard fall on a sheet of ice in 2013, things changed for good. My pain escalated, and by 2014, I underwent spinal fusion surgery.
But Here’s What I’ve Learned:
Pain doesn’t have to mean pause.
Injury doesn’t mean invisible.
And chronic doesn’t mean stuck.
I Choose Movement Over Fear.
With the right modifications, strength training, and recovery routines, I stay active—on my terms. Some days that means walking. Other days, it means stretching, foam rolling, or simply giving my body grace.
I also live with hypothyroidism, which you can read more about here ➝.
It’s a lot, but I’m not looking for pity. I’m here to show what’s possible.
What you'll find on this page:
My favorite low-impact workouts for chronic pain warriors
Mobility routines that support spinal health
Joint-friendly strength training tips
Mental health check-ins for life with chronic pain
Encouragement for those navigating surgery, setbacks, or simply… hard days
You’re Not Stuck. You’re Still Moving—Even If It Looks Different Now.
You can live with pain and still make progress.
You can adjust without giving up.
You can slow down—and still rise strong.
We are not broken. We’re building.
One movement, one moment, one choice at a time.
