Listen to your body

Navigating chronic pain with awareness

Today we are going to dive into chronic pain and the art of listening to one's body. Living with chronic pain presents unique challenges that often necessitate a heightened level of self-awareness and understanding. In this space, we aim to explore the significance of tuning into the signals your body sends, and how this awareness can positively impact your journey towards managing and coping with chronic pain. From practical tips and expert insights to personal stories of triumph and resilience, join us as we delve into the profound importance of honoring and heeding the messages your body communicates.

The complexities of the human body are awe-inspiring!

In my ongoing quest to master my chronic pain, I've realized the critical importance of pausing to listen to my body's messages. When discomfort arises, it's a cue for me to tune in and decipher its meaning. Ignoring these signals only prolongs the issue; my body is attempting to communicate something vital, and it's essential to heed its call rather than push it aside.

Throughout my years as a ballerina, left hip pain has been a constant companion. In the world of dance, it's almost customary to push through such discomforts for the sake of performance. However, at 52, I've come to realize the importance of paying closer attention to these warning signs.

I vividly remember experiencing hip pain at the young age of 15, yet my dedication to my passion kept me pushing forward. It wasn't until I turned 26 that I decided to seek help from a chiropractor for the first time. It was during this visit that I discovered my right leg was half an inch shorter than my left, leading to a chronic SI joint dysfunction. Initially, I believed this height discrepancy was the root cause of my hip pain. However, I soon realized that the reality was far more complex than I had imagined.

I've recently transitioned to a new chiropractor, and I'm experiencing significantly improved outcomes with my adjustments. For the first time in memory, my chronically misaligned SI joints have remained stable. However, despite these positive changes, I find myself grappling with a perplexing question: Why does my hip continue to ache?

Motivated by my commitment to listening to my body, I took the proactive step of consulting my doctor to delve deeper into the root of my hip discomfort. After undergoing X-rays, the results were surprisingly positive—no evidence of degeneration or arthritis was found, which was a relief. However, due to the presence of my spinal cord stimulator, an MRI isn't feasible. This presents a challenge, as an MRI could have revealed soft tissue injuries such as a torn labrum. Thus, we'll need to explore alternative diagnostic avenues to uncover the cause of my ongoing pain.

My doctor has identified two potential causes for my discomfort, with the first being trochanteric bursitis. This condition involves inflammation of the bursa sack on the outer side of the hip. Several rotator-type muscles of the hip attach to the trochanter, facilitating inward and outward leg rotation. Additionally, the IT (iliotibial) band connects to this area. The IT band, akin to a ligament, originates from the pelvis and extends along the outer thigh to the top of the shinbone (tibia). During activities like running, the IT band acts as a reservoir for energy, aiding in leg propulsion and swing as it tightens when the leg moves backward and releases energy as the foot leaves the ground.

The second issue is the possibility of a hip labral tear.  Due to my inability to have an MRI, this will prove difficult to diagnose.  Made of tough cartilage, the labrum rings the hip’s socket, or acetabulum. The labrum is important to overall hip health and function. Specifically, the labrum:

1. Facilitates the hip's range of motion, allowing the thigh to rotate in every direction, including forward, backward, inward, and externally
2. Helps preserve proper alignment between the hip’s ball and socket
3. Keeps synovial fluid, or joint fluid, within the hip joint capsule (synovial fluid reduces stress and friction and allows for smooth movement between the ball and socket)

In essence, the hip labrum is a ring of cartilage that provides both support and flexibility to the joint. When the labrum is damaged, the hips range of motion, alignment, and synovial fluid can be affected.

The solution to addressing these issues lies in physical therapy. By focusing on strengthening my hips, quadriceps, and hamstrings, I can work towards alleviating discomfort. Additionally, evaluating my posture and stance to ensure proper alignment is crucial. Furthermore, targeting and resolving any adhesions in my fascia that may be exacerbating hip pain is an essential component of my rehabilitation plan.

It's valuable to heed your body's signals. Pay attention to the warning signs it provides; ignoring them can lead to consequences.

Cheers!

Nicole

P.S. Forever learning