06/16/2026
Living With Pain Doesn't Have to Be Your Normal
Every week I hear people say things like:
"My back hurts."
"My knees hurt."
"I'm getting older. I just can't do that anymore."
Unfortunately, many people accept pain as an inevitable part of aging. While it's true that our bodies change over time, living with constant discomfort is not something we should simply accept without exploring ways to improve it.
I know this because I've lived it myself.
Twenty-five years ago, I was involved in a serious accident in Yosemite National Park. I broke my femur and had to be carried out of the wilderness on a backboard before being transported by ambulance to a hospital in Reno. Emergency surgery left me with a titanium rod in my leg and four pins in my hip and knee.
For years afterward, I dealt with chronic pain, particularly on my right side. There were days when I thought that was simply the way life was going to be.
Thankfully, I was wrong.
Over the years, I have discovered a variety of recovery and wellness modalities that have helped me significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and regain energy. Today, I am mostly pain-free and able to remain active and enjoy the things I love.
In fact, I recently experienced a reminder of how important recovery has become in my life. Last week I missed ten days of my regular cold plunge and light therapy sessions. By the end of that period, I could feel the difference. I was more tired, more sore, and less energetic. Returning to those routines made a noticeable impact on how I felt.
That experience reinforced something I often share with others: consistency matters.
Pain management is rarely about finding one magic solution. Instead, it often involves a combination of healthy habits, recovery practices, movement, nutrition, sleep, and stress management. Small improvements performed consistently can create significant changes over time.
If you're living with aches and pains, consider asking yourself a few questions:
Have I explored all of my options?
Am I doing anything consistently to support my recovery?
Have I accepted pain as normal when it may not have to be?
Your health, mobility, and quality of life are incredibly valuable. The goal isn't necessarily to eliminate every ache and pain, but to help your body function better so you can continue doing the things that matter most.
Growing older is inevitable. Feeling worse every year doesn't have to be.
Take care of your body, invest in your recovery, and remember that feeling better is possible.
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