A Secret to Overcoming Pain and Getting Back to Movement: Build A Callus, Not A Blister
“I’ve tried to exercise more, but it causes more pain and flares everything up!”
Does this sound familiar?
We totally get it. It’s frustrating, and it feels like no matter how hard you try, the pain just keeps coming back.
Here’s what’s most likely going on:
When pain lingers over time, it often leads to avoiding activity altogether. This extended period of inactivity can cause weakness in muscles, joints, and other key structures in your body. When you finally try to get back into the swing of things, your body isn’t ready to handle it, and it’s all too easy to overdo it, triggering a painful flare-up—kind of like getting a blister.
So, what’s the solution?
The key is starting slow and focusing on gentle, manageable movements that don’t aggravate your pain. Instead of fixating on what you can’t do, shift your mindset to what you CAN do. It may feel like you’re not doing enough at first, but remember: a callus isn’t built overnight.
The mental battle is real, but beliefs like “this isn’t enough” or “I should be doing more” can hold you back from real progress.
It’s important to embrace the process—gradual, consistent movement is what keeps your body—and your mindset—healthy. In fact, your mindset might be the most important factor in the whole recovery journey.
So, start simple, with low-impact exercises and track your progress. You should be able to do a little more each day and gradually rebuild strength. Over time, your body will adapt, and that healing you’re hoping for will follow.
It might take time, but stay consistent. A callus is built through consistent, manageable challenges. And soon enough, you’ll be stronger, pain-free, and ready for more!
Don’t give up on what you want to do and who you do it for,
Dr .Caleb
Want to save yourself time and energy in this process? We can help because we know what you do, why you want to do it, and have worked with lots of active people just like you. Don’t let pain hold you back from living your best, strongest life doing what you love with who you love!