Six months ago, Gareth wasn’t planning a ski trip. In fact, he wasn’t even sure how he was going to get out of bed.

Like many people we see at goPhysio, Gareth had lived with a niggling back problem for years. The sort you adapt around. Ignore. Manage. Tell yourself is “just one of those things”. Until it isn’t.

When a “niggle” turns into something bigger

Early in 2025, Gareth’s back pain escalated rapidly. Simple, everyday things became difficult:

• Getting out of bed
• Sitting comfortably on the sofa
• Moving without fear of triggering pain
• Feeling confident about future plans

This is a point many people reach, not suddenly injured, but quietly limited. And often the biggest frustration isn’t just the pain. It’s the uncertainty:

• Is this just how it’s going to be now?
• Am I making it worse by moving?
• What if it never really settles?

Taking the step to get help

Following a recommendation, Gareth booked an appointment with Kim, one of our physiotherapists, for assessment and treatment of his SIJ (pelvis) and lower back. That first decision – to stop “putting up with it” – is often the hardest part. Physiotherapy isn’t just about treating pain. It’s about:

• Understanding what’s actually going on
• Knowing what’s safe to do
• Having a clear plan instead of guesswork
• Regaining confidence in your body again

Over six months of physiotherapy, Gareth’s symptoms improved steadily – but just as importantly, his trust in his body returned.

Why Pilates became the turning point

As part of his recovery, Gareth also began Pilates with Lottie. And he nearly didn’t!

“I was really apprehensive to start Pilates. I thought as a bloke I’d feel uncomfortable in classes full of women.”

This is a concern we hear more often than people realise. But what Gareth found instead was:

• Small, supportive classes
• A welcoming, non-judgemental environment
• Clear guidance tailored to his body
• Exercises that made daily life easier, not harder

Six months in, Pilates is now a long-term commitment for him – and even his partner has joined too!

Real life results – not just pain relief

Fast forward to now. Gareth is writing to us from Finland, halfway through a skiing trip he genuinely didn’t believe would be possible six months earlier.

• He’s skiing.
• He’s travelling.
• He’s stretching confidently each morning using exercises recommended by his Pilates instructor.
• And he’s already booked in for a Reformer Pilates taster when he gets home.

That’s the difference between managing pain and reclaiming your life.

The frustrations we hear every day

If Gareth’s story feels familiar, you’re not alone. Many people come to us feeling:

• Frustrated that pain has been hanging around for months or years
• Unsure whether exercise will help or make things worse
• Wary of classes or gyms after injury
• Tired of adapting their life around pain
• Anxious about missing out on holidays, hobbies or work

What they’re often missing isn’t effort – it’s the right support, at the right time.

Why choosing the right help matters

At goPhysio in Chandlers Ford, Eastleigh, we don’t believe in quick fixes or generic plans. We focus on:

• Thorough assessment
• Evidence-based physiotherapy
• Progressive rehabilitation
• Small group and 1-to-1 Pilates for strength, control and confidence
• Helping you feel safe to move again

Whether it’s getting back to sport, travelling pain-free, or simply enjoying everyday life without constant awareness of your body – the goal is the same.

“I honestly didn’t think I’d be able to go”

Those words matter. Because behind them is a decision Gareth made months ago – to get help rather than keep hoping things would improve on their own.

If you’re feeling stuck, unsure, or quietly frustrated with your body, that decision could be one of the best things you do too.

📍 Physiotherapy & Pilates in Chandlers Ford and Eastleigh, Hampshire
📩 Get in touch to book an assessment or ask questions – we’re always happy to help.

p.s. How gorgeous does Finland look?!