Patient Story: Why traditional physical therapy hasn’t worked for me.
By, Jessica Dudley (Current patient of Core Physical Therapy)
Hello! I have EDS, POTS, MCAS, and small fiber neuropathy. In the past, I’ve worked with physical therapists who don’t understand these complex conditions or how to treat them. They followed a one size fits all treatment program that didn’t help me feel better and used force that often resulted in more injuries. Their intentions were good but I desperately needed a gentle treatment that was tailored to my body’s unique needs.
I recently had a major neurosurgery that fused my skull to my cervical spine and saved my life; however, the surgery caused all of my syndromes to flare up and I desperately needed a PT who could work closely with me to reduce my pain and strengthen my body to prevent more damage and subsequent surgeries. My EDS specialist referred me to Kellie and said she uses a gentle, pain free approach to heal multiple body systems. “I don’t fully understand how,” she said, “but what she does is somewhat mysterious and magical.”
I was intrigued.
WHY FASCIAL COUNTERSTRAIN IS DIFFERENT THAN OTHER MANUAL THERAPIES
Kellie explained that she uses a cranial scan to pinpoint reflexive muscle guarding in any of my body’s systems. Once she identifies where the problems are, she gently releases tender points—using up to 900 techniques—and deactivates the body’s deep fascial pain receptors which trap inflammation. This normalizes muscular tension, restores normal blood flow and neural input, and reduces swelling and pain.
Kellie’s mastery of the FCS assessment tool, along with her deep knowledge of anatomy, intuitive nature, sensitive hands, and passion for learning have made her a valuable and trusted member of my healthcare team. I would be lost without her!
To me, it’s not magic- all science and heart.
HOW KELLIE IS HELPING ME LIVE MY BEST LIFE
After treatment, there is a palpable reduction in inflammation, pain is greatly reduced, my body feels more aligned, and my nervous system is calm. Treatments are holding for longer now and my energy level is increasing.
I feel my body let go when Kellie releases a tender point. Even though she’s just lightly touched a few spots, it feels like I’ve had the best full body massage and my autonomic nervous system calms down. Less anxiety!
With Kellie’s support, I’ve stopped having dystonic events related to brain stem damage and been able to discontinue my medication. These events caused seizure-like symptoms with extreme widespread muscle tightening that would last for hours.
Jessica Dudley, patient
August 2020
