Chronic Pain and Trauma: A Journey of Healing and Reflection

Chronic neck pain can often lead to deeper reflections on past trauma, as experienced by Jennifer Young, a long-term melanoma survivor. Young’s journey reveals how childhood medical procedures, such as the removal of a malignant tumor, can have lasting impacts on physical health and emotional well-being. At 38, she learned from a neurologist that she has degenerative disc disease in her cervical spine, a condition characterized by the wear and tear of spinal discs, leading to significant pain.

During a recent acupuncture session with practitioner Jade, Young discussed her medical history, which includes the removal of a tumor from the base of her skull. Initially unaware of the full extent of her surgery, she later discovered that a portion of her occipital bone had also been removed. This revelation led her to contemplate the possibility that her long-standing neck pain might be linked to unresolved trauma from her past.

Young reflected on her daily activities that seemingly contributed to her condition, such as carrying her children and managing her academic responsibilities. Yet, the connection between her past surgeries and current pain became evident during her treatment.

The Lasting Impact of Trauma

70% of adults in the United States have experienced some form of traumatic event in their lives, according to various studies. While some individuals may not remember these experiences, many strive to understand their potential effects. Young’s experience highlights the notion that unresolved trauma can manifest physically, resulting in tension, fatigue, or chronic pain.

As she lay on the acupuncture table, Young acknowledged the emotional scars that have lingered alongside her physical ones.

“It isn’t until we uncover old trauma like this and begin to treat it that we can truly heal,”

Jade explained, emphasizing the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional impacts of past experiences.

Young realized that her journey to healing involved not only the treatment of her physical pain but also embracing her emotional scars. The memories of her young adulthood, including navigating her cancer diagnosis at age 19, resurfaced as she underwent acupuncture. She recognized that her emotional trauma had been repressed, waiting for the right moment to be acknowledged.

Connecting Past and Present

As a mother of four, Young sees reflections of her younger self in her children, who are now facing their own challenges of identity and independence. She began to understand how her past experiences shaped her present self and the importance of allowing those memories to surface rather than burying them.

The process of healing became not just about alleviating physical symptoms but also about accepting her entire story—scars and all. Young’s realization that her emotional pain was intertwined with her physical discomfort was a pivotal moment in her journey.

Since that acupuncture session, Young has made a conscious effort to engage with her past more intentionally. She has started writing about her experiences and openly discussing her journey, including submitting a profile to a melanoma community on social media. Sharing her story, complete with a photograph of her surgical scar, has connected her with others who have faced similar challenges.

Through this process, Young has embraced the idea that healing is not about erasing the past but integrating all parts of herself into her present life. As she moves forward, she feels empowered to let her scars—both physical and emotional—speak their truths.

Jennifer Young’s story serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between trauma and health. By acknowledging and addressing the scars we carry, individuals can embark on a path toward comprehensive healing, allowing both their bodies and minds to recover.