Participant Reflections on Tai Chi for Back Pain Program
Several participants in our tai chi program for back pain are medical doctors. Others come from diverse personal and professional backgrounds and have shared their experiences.
“The pain is gone. What has not changed is my spine. I did not cure my spine. I learned to live in harmony with my bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and nerves, and the pain went away.”
— Marilyn H., 74 Read the full reflection
Medical Doctor Reflections
“After years of chronic low back pain and trying various treatments without relief, I finally found significant improvement after my 5th session of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, with regular practice in between.”
— Ellen Blye, M.D.
“This program helped me reduce my pain medication use and ultimately eliminate the need for surgical intervention — hoping it stays that way!”
— Doctor R.P.
“Dr. Yang’s Tai Chi and Qi Gong program for back pain is the best I’ve seen in my 30+ years as a spine care specialist, and I highly recommend it to anyone with spine issues.”
— Matthew McLaughlin, M.D.
“Over time, I have transformed unhealthy movement patterns into healthy ones — unlearning bad habits takes time!”
— Lawrence Stern, MD
Reflections from Other Participants
“Within just six weeks of starting the program and practicing almost daily, I began to feel real relief, not just physically but mentally, too. For the first time in years, I felt hope. I started thinking of it as ‘the pain’ rather than ‘my pain,’ as though I was no longer its prisoner.”
— Marie
“When I first joined the study, I needed my cane for support everywhere I walked. By the time I completed the study, I was able to move comfortably around my apartment without my cane. While I still rely on my cane outside, this progress has given me newfound confidence and independence.”
— Julie
“I eliminated back pain, avoided a second surgery, and regained my life. I went from using a walker to lifting 100 pounds and enjoying life again.”
— Rob