My Back Pain Story
In 2012, I hurt my back lifting weights. I felt a sharp pop and then searing pain in my lower back. The agony lasted nearly four years. I tried all kinds of treatments. Each gave me short-term relief but failed to help me get back to exercise. Every time I tried to lift weights or run again, the pain would return, sometimes lingering for weeks.
The pain made me question whether I could keep working as a chiropractor. It hurt to drive (I had an hour commute each way at the time) and it hurt to work. Exercise was out of reach, and my social life suffered. I couldn’t sit or stand for long without discomfort. Through this experience, I learned a lot about chronic pain and its toll on the body, mind, and life. I came to believe that things happen for a reason and used my experience to dig into research and find an approach that worked.
I also became frustrated with the traditional care provided by Drs, Chiros & physios. The usual quick treatment, some stretches to perform and a ‘see you next week’. While it helped at the time, there was no clear diagnosis, no clear recovery plan and very limited empathy to my frustrations and the impact it was having on my life.
In 2016, by co-incidence I found a gym with a coach who listened to my story and empathised with the frustration I had. He convinced me to work with him for 6 months. To trust him and emphasized proper form and sustainable strength training. The goal was not to exhaust myself but to finish each session with energy left after each session. The idea was that training five days a week in a manageable way over time was better than burning out quickly. Consistency over six months required restraint and patience. A structured strength program, combined with treatment, rebuilt my back strength and resilience and to this day the pain hasn’t returned.
Philosophy and Approach to Care
This experience pushed me to study more about exercise science. I pursued a Master’s in Exercise Science with a focus on Strength and Conditioning to understand how the body adapts to exercise and how to use strength and movement for long-term improvement. I believe whole heartedly that the body can adapt and heal with the right approach. Consistency, the right support team and patience are crucial.
With degrees in Chiropractic and Exercise Science, I have a unique view on injury and performance. Balancing treatment with principles of exercise adaptation allows me to offer a well-rounded approach to patient care.
In our clinic, the goal is always is to provide a person centred approach. We empathise with the persons situation, provide guidance and support as well as a clear recovery path. All of this to reduce pain and make meaningful, lasting changes through hands-on treatment, movement, and strength training. If you want to resolve your pain and improve your health, you need to feel empowered, educated, and motivated to reach your goals.
Daniel Rothenberg – MExSci. MChiro. BChiroSc
P.S. If you are looking for a new way to get ontop of your pain. If you want to really change the direction in which you see your health going due to pain or injury, make sure to check out our Back 2 Your Best Rehab Program. This is the program we created to help those with chronic pain after my experience.
