Gina's Recovery Journey

Phase 1: RSI of the wrists/migraines 

During my music degree I became increasingly stiff, sore and in pain, and could only play for short periods of time. I tried many approaches but to no avail. An RSI diagnosis eventuated in me giving up my cello career and finding a job in administration, at which time the migraines began. I was given Sarno’s Mindbody Prescription and experienced a ‘book cure’, then realised I needed to do more meaningful work and started a theology degree.

Phase 2: Anxiety, depression, pubic symphysis disorder (SPD, pelvic instability)

During my theology degree and the years afterwards having my three children, I experienced increasing generalised anxiety. I managed with anxiety medications for these years. After my third child was born I developed excruciating shooting pains in the pelvic bowl area, diagnosed variously as SPD, pelvic instability and a few other things. After 8 months of worsening pain (unable to walk far, too scared to exercise etc) I twigged that this may also be TMS. I wrote to Dr Schubiner who confirmed that it could well be, and reversed my symptoms in two weeks through reading ‘Unlearn Your Pain’. 

Phase 3: Running injury ‘whack-a-mole’: Plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, calf strain, piriformis issues, Morton’s neuroma, lower back issues

After the SPD, I decided my underlying anxiety needed attention and took myself off to see a psychologist. I also started doing all sorts of positive, supportive things, including taking up running. However, this also activated a lot of internal pressure thanks to my TMS personality! This phase (which of course continues today) was about really coming to understand and recognise the internal pressure I generate for myself and to learn to befriend all parts of myself. 

Today

I am more and more able to meet my experience with self-compassion and move through uncomfortable thoughts, feelings and sensations without getting stuck in persistent pain or anxiety. Gina is now a SIRPA-trained practitioner and if you would like to know more about her work you can contact her via her website here.

Gina kindly shared her story in a live Q&A on the SIRPA Facebook page and answered the viewers questions. You can watch the replay below.

Gina’s story of symptoms began with wrist pain and then years later she developed anxiety, depression and pubic symphasis disorder. After many more years and many more symptoms she began to realise that her longterm anxiety was playing a role. Starting to address this was the start of her recovery journey which then resulted in her undertaking SIRPA’s training to help others.

Join people who have found relief through the SIRPA approach to chronic pain.