At Scope and in our Back 2 Your Best Rehab Program, we’ve always believed that helping people in pain is about more than just the body. It’s about mindset, nervous system regulation, and meeting people where they are.
In a recent episode of the Back to Your Best Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Oliver Crossley—physio, yoga teacher, and founder of Yogic Physio. His approach to persistent pain and invisible conditions like EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) blends science, mindfulness, and compassion in a way that feels deeply human.
Here are three powerful lessons from our conversation:
1. Mindful rehab starts by listening—really listening
One of the most valuable things Oliver shared is how often people with complex pain feel dismissed or misunderstood. He emphasised the importance of slowing down, asking better questions, and tailoring care to the individual. For anyone dealing with an “invisible” condition, just being seen and heard is often the first step toward progress.
2. Strength training can be safe—even with hypermobility
There’s a misconception that people with EDS or joint instability should avoid heavy lifting. But Oliver explained how, with the right support and progression, strength work (like trap bar deadlifts) can actually improve proprioception, confidence, and joint control—leading to less pain, not more.
3. Breathwork and body scans aren’t just “extras”—they’re part of the treatment
Meditation, breath regulation, and guided attention can help calm the nervous system and improve the way pain is processed. Oliver sees these practices not just as add-ons but as essential tools—especially for people stuck in stress, fatigue, or flare-ups.
At our Ipswich clinic, we’re seeing this every day: the combination of strength, mindfulness, and genuine support works. If you’re dealing with chronic pain, fatigue, or an invisible condition, you don’t have to go it alone.
👉 Learn more about our Back 2 Your Best Rehab Program—designed to help you build strength, calm your system, and take back control of your health.
