07/05/2026
I was reflecting on my own journey this morning and realized I haven't shared this for a while...
My MRI told me one story. My body tells another...
My journey with chronic back pain started 15 years ago. An MRI revealed a central L5/S1 pr*****ed disc that appeared "black" (degenerative). I was convinced my spine was "weak" and that my days of high intensity Muay Thai were over.
I didn't stop training entirely, but I had to adapt. For years, I stuck to the technical, less intense Filipino Martial Arts, avoiding the explosive movements that I feared would aggravate my back. At one point, I even tried resting completely for 4 months, but I actually felt worse, both physically and mentally.
The turning point came in 2016. I met a Sports Therapist who introduced me to modern pain science and Pilates. I finally understood that my scan showed normal age related changes and that my body was simply stuck in a protective "alarm" state. I wasn't "broken", I was just sensitised.
That realisation was so life changing that in 2020, I began my training to become a therapist myself. I wanted to be the person who could tell others: "You aren't broken!"
With my new understanding of the body, I pushed through the fear. I started small, rebuilt my confidence, and by 2019, I was back to full power Muay Thai. That same year, I completed the M.K.G. 60 challenge (60 minutes of Thai rounds with no break).
Today, I am a certified M.K.G. International Associate Instructor.
You are more than your scan results. ✨
Whether you have a 'scary' MRI or you’re just struggling with daily stiffness, I use this same evidence based approach to help others move without fear.
Drop me a message to chat about how we can change your story, or...
Book me at my West Canford Heath Clinic
Mon/Tues All Day | Fri Mornings
https://app.squareup.com/appointments/book/ynhpub8j3q3p24/LG9MK3BS97WKE/start
Book me at Broadstone Physio & Chiropractic Clinic
Wed All Day | Thur/Fri Afternoons
https://bolton.au1.cliniko.com/bookings
My website: https://www.julessmmt.co.uk/