Dr Shin and the Functional Restoration Program is not a miracle fix or cure. If you are looking…read morefor that, then all I can say is good luck! If you are dependent on medication and want to seek that route, then his philosophy, research and programs are not for you.
Now, if you are tired of losing the life you had and want to get it back and can handle discomfort with physical effort, then this is something to look at in depth. Dont do this with a close mind, a dependency on medication or because insurance/attorney says you have to. Nothing comes easy in life...success no matter what takes effort/consistency!
I have been seeing Dr Shin for 2 years and yes I was skeptical and frustrated. I had opted for Surgery after 19 months and the frustration of the pain. I can say with the PT, my flexibility had returned, but the pain had not subsided. I wanted my life back and did not want to rely on medication! I ended up with a fusion and cage inserted into my lumbar area. The recovery was not easy and took work, but as I said, I wanted my life back!! Due to the fires and threat of evacuation, i overexerted myself and brought alot of mental fear as well as physical discomfort back. Dr Shin said I recovered from my surgery and I had to move to show my mind and body I could recover.
I am not a weak person and dont like to sit on my ass and pity life. I wanted my life back! I was enrolled in the Keystone Functional Restoration Program, which is 7 weeks. Yes, I was skeptical but You only get out of life, what you put into it. I set goals for myself and went with an open mind. I will admit at first, I was like this was bullshit, but stayed open. The staff was very open and friendly. The environment is outstanding! You will attend a class with other people who understand and can relate to your trials and tribulations. You grow, develop and motivate each other. The Staff supports and educate in many ways that keep you motivated. You will exercise and be sore at first and if this is not you or you are scared to work hard for an end result or are just negative, then do not attend. This is a blunt statement, if you want pity or make excuses, stay home and accept your life. The classroom classes are for the most part informative. The Health education and Physical Fitness/Training are outstanding! I can say Im not cured, however i never expected to attain that. I knew going into this, that at this point an injury never fully recovers. I wanted and could accept 80% of recovery so I could snowboard, jetski, mtn bike, jiu jitsu and just be somewhat active again.
After 7 weeks and completion of the course, I have a better mindset, physical condition and have almost eliminated the daily need for ibuprofen. Dont get me wrong, I still have discomfort (dont use the word pain anymore) and get sore, but I am now becoming more active. Dr Shin gave me the green light to try snowboarding again and my mindset is right to do it.
Its not a miracle cure, but if you miss your old life and mentally can accept a challenge, then if given the opportunity attend this class.