My Name is Gerry. I am 32 and about 9 years ago was involved in a sparing incident while playing Jujitsu. The blow was nearly fatal and left me with 2 fractured vertebras in my neck. At the time I was very lucky to have been under the care of one of the best surgeons in Northern Ireland, Mr Eammes. I underwent spinal fusion. A metal plate along with 4 screws holds my 3 vertebras as one. The discs were removed and bone was grafted from my pelvis to my neck.

Though the surgeon stabilised me and saved me from becoming paralysed from the shoulders down the limitations of what I could and couldn't do became obvious once I got home. My range of motion became grossly limited, the strength in my arms was diminished, and the pain was constant and at times excruciating. I was unable to lift my children and playing with them left me exhausted and frustrated. My level of concentration was affected. I was on pain killers constantly. I abandoned any thoughts of doing Jujitsu ever again.

A friend at work suggested that I see Dr Nicolas Maurice in Lisburn Chiropractic Clinic. She too had had back surgery and had needed care after the op. At first I was sceptical and quite weary of manual therapy. I really thought that more harm could come to me but Dr Nick took his time with me, explaining the reason why I felt so low. He examined me, did a scan and X-Rayed me. He then suggested a treatment programme over a number of months and worked with me with regards to scheduling. As I got better the frequency of treatment also reduced.

I gradually started to feel better. The pain eased and my neck movement dramatically improved. My strength came back and the sensation in my arms was no longer altered. I really felt alive again. I was able to lift my wee baby girl and play football with my son, Nathan ,something I'd never done before without paying for it soon after. My best achievement since getting adjusted however is that I have run 2 marathons and am about to sit for my 3 rd Dan in Jujitsu. I'm training and teaching the sport I love and I have Chiropractic to thank for that. I go and see Dr Nick now every month to keep me in check and to stay well. I have been under his care for over 2 years.

Chiropractic is not about a bad back or a "creek" in the neck. It is about making your spine function better so that you can express life to your full. It is safer than most people realise and if it has worked for me despite spinal surgery it can work for anyone.

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