Rob Hammer’s Incredible Journey (full version)

In 2015, I first experienced back pain with numbness down both legs and balance issues when walking or standing. I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis, and after eight weeks of physical therapy with no improvement, my local orthopedic surgeon recommended surgery. Imaging showed severe narrowing in my lower spine and a synovial cyst pressing on my spinal cord.

I underwent surgery, followed by 12 weeks of physical therapy to strengthen my lower back. While I managed the post-surgical pain with Tramadol, I struggled with withdrawal symptoms after stopping the medication. A year later, the back pain returned. Although imaging showed no obvious reason for the pain, I was sent back to physical therapy. Frustrated and with minimal results, I decided to continue the exercises at home, which worked for a while.

By 2019, my condition had worsened significantly. I relied on a walker to move, suffered severe muscle spasms, and faced the prospect of a 2-3 level spinal fusion surgery. Determined to avoid surgery, I pursued injections and medications at a pain clinic, but these interventions brought no lasting relief. I felt disheartened and believed I was experiencing Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)—a condition I now know many others struggle with as well.

A Turning Point

In 2019, desperate for answers, I contacted the Mayo Clinic. After reviewing my case, their medical team gave me two options: another round of physical therapy or an epidural injection. I reluctantly tried the injection, but the relief was short-lived. I expressed my frustration with the lack of results. That’s when the team told me about a joint study by the Spine Center at Cornell Medicine and Master Yang on Tai Chi for back pain.

I was accepted into the study and randomized in August 2022. In January 2023, I joined the training as part of the control group. At the time, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was willing to give it a try.

A Life-Changing Experience

From the very beginning, I made a firm commitment to the program. During the 12-week research trial, we met twice a week and were encouraged to practice daily. By week six, I began noticing significant improvements: my muscle spasms disappeared, I no longer needed prescription or over-the-counter pain medication, and I was able to move more easily and with confidence.

By April,  the end of the program, I was completely pain-free.

Why This Program Is for Everyone

While this Tai Chi program is designed to relieve chronic pain, its comprehensive approach—addressing posture, sleep, balance, core strength, and cultivating a calm, positive, and resilient mind—offers benefits that extend beyond pain management. For those without pain, these same elements can enhance overall health, improve vitality, and build long-term resilience. Whether recovering from pain or simply looking to build strength and vitality, this program can be helpful for everyone.

Life After the Program

After the study ended, I continued with Master Yang’s program for a year, attending weekly classes and using recordings to practice daily. Now, I practice Tai Chi on my own with three routines I’ve developed:

• A 1-hour session daily when time allows.

• A 30-minute version for busier days.

• A 10-minute routine while traveling or during short breaks.

Where I Am Today

I am completely pain-free, I no longer take any pain medication, I’ve added strength training to my routine and can lift up to 100 pounds. I’m active again, enjoying all of the outdoor activities I love. This program has truly changed my life. I never thought I’d be free of pain and medications.  This Tai Chi program gave me my life back

—Rob

Inspired by Rob’s story? Enroll in our evidence-based Tai Chi program today to start your journey toward improved health. Join Now