Wellward Warrior Success Story: A World Traveler Back in Action

Allison’s first few appointments with Dr. Danesh (MD, Johns Hopkins) consisted of careful physical examinations and conversations to identify the sources of her neck and back pain.

A Decrease in Energy, an Increase in Fear

 A French professor and tea writer, Allison began experiencing neck and back pain in her 20s.  At first, her occasional bouts of pain healed quickly and had little effect on her daily life.  Most of the time, she could still jog, actively engage with her students, and take long-haul flights to Europe with no worry of a flare-up.

Though as time passed, Allison’s pain became more frequent and intense.  By the time she was in her late 30s, small movements brought on terrible flare-ups—every time she stood up from a couch, slipped on stockings, or bent down to tie her shoes, she risked upsetting the precarious balance in her neck and back.  Allison began planning her days around her pain—lying down for 30 minutes after every class so that she could focus on her next group of students, spending less time with her friends so that she could rest her back.  Her energy levels were low, and she constantly worried that the pain would get worse. 

 Pain Mystery

Over the years, Allison sought treatment for her chronic pain in both the United States and France.  Physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and osteopathic adjustments alleviated her pain, but only temporarily.  Clinicians were unable to identify the source of her pain and unable to help her establish sustainable stability in her neck and back. 

By the time she found her way to Wellward Regenerative Medicine in late 2019, she was at the end of her rope.  In all the years she had been seeking help, she had never received a clear diagnosis.  Pain and fatigue occupied more space in her life each year.  Something had to change. 

An Integrated Approach to Healing 

Allison’s first few appointments with Dr. Danesh consisted of careful physical examinations and conversations to identify the sources of her neck and back pain. Piece by piece, he figured out the puzzle of her pain, aided by diagnostic ultrasounds.  Weak, slack ligaments were not holding her spine in place.  Dr. Danesh recommended a course of treatment consisting of regenerative therapies, physical therapy, MLS laser therapy, and a healthy lifestyle.  

Allison opted to undergo a series of regenerative injections—prolotherapy and PRP (platelet-rich-plasma).  She has experienced dramatic healing. She now has almost no pain, and her energy levels are higher than they’ve been in a decade.  Regarding Allison’s treatment, Dr. Danesh explains, “Especially in younger individuals, PRP and prolotherapy have a rapid, robust response.” 

At Wellward, Allison continues her rehabilitation with biomechanical expert and physical therapist Dr. James Escaloni, who helps reinforce the benefits of PRP and prolotherapy with exercises that strengthen the muscles around her spine.  She maintains a healthy diet and exercises regularly.  Perhaps most importantly, Allison says she is ready to head back to France!  “My back is strong, I’m virtually pain free, and I’m planning my next trip over the pond.  Paris awaits!” 

Do you suffer from neck or back pain?  Wellward offers many non-surgical options to alleviate your pain. To learn more, download Dr. Danesh Mazloomdoost’s best selling book 50 Shades of Pain. The Wellward team looks forward to speaking with you and helping you on your journey to healing and better health.