I was in an accident almost two years ago during which I was thrown around quite violently. I suffered two fractured vertabrae in the lumbar region. The bones had healed, but my back was not altogether back to normal.

I had been through physical therapy, which was altogether not very helpful. The stretches tended to cause more pain than relief. However, I "recovered" and returned to many of my previous activities. Although medications (Motrin) concealed the pain, I never reached 100% of my previous activities. Eventually, trying to pursue previous activities built up to so much pain, I reached a point of near immobility. I had to cut out almost all physical activities to avoid lower back pain. Even electro-simulation therapy and hydrocortizone injections had only minor and temporary effects on my situation.

I started to see a homeopathic chiropractor, who helped to drastically improve my situation. However, I still had to be careful about my activities, and could not run without back spasms and pain. After several months of treatment, I had come to the point where I was looking for something further. I had started a "mildly aggressive" daily excercise and stretch routine (that I made up as I went along). If I was aggressive (similar to what the physical therapist expected), I would have back spasms and pain. Slowly, I built myself to a plateau, but could not go further. Even a fast walk could cause back spasms, which immediately slowed me down.

However, a friend mentioned "somatics" to me. My friend, who also has a "bad back" had often talked about chiropractors and other therapies. He briefly described the principles of somatics and referred me to Dr. Hanna's book. I checked out the web site, and decided to give it a try. I bought the book "Somatics" at a local store two days ago, and feel inspired to write!

I feel like I have dramatically unlocked my waist/lower back. After only two days, I am convinced. The theory matches my experience--my back had been incredibly stiff, and I am very protective of my back, especially after the injury. My back had been incredibly tense, even though the bones had healed. However, in only two days, I can feel an amazing difference. I am much more flexible and limber, which shows up in the other traditional stretches I perform daily. Learning about Somatics is far and away the best investment I have ever made in my personal health care.