Two years ago, I was diagnosed with Thoracic Facet Syndrome, a condition that caused mid-back pain, and prevented me from a sound nights sleep. I tried chiropractic care, physical therapy and facet joint injections without success. In desperation for a good nights sleep, I underwent a bilateral thoracic rhizotomy (burning the facet joint nerves) to alleviate the chronic pain. My brother, a physical therapist, recommended yoga to continue the healing process and prevent the condition from returning. A year of Bikram Yoga practice has helped my body become stronger, more flexible and pain-free. I motivate myself with thoughts of sleepless nights every time I start the spine strengthening series. Consistent practice has also increased my physical and mental stamina in my job as a flight instructor for Eurocopter. I can endure five hours of in-flight emergency procedure training with less stress and don't feel completely drained at the end of the day. The changes in my body over the last year have proven to me that practicing Bikram Yoga must become a permanent lifestyle change to remain strong, healthy and pain-free.
I guess my brother finally gave me some good advice!
John Bourgeois
