For months, I could barely walk. The pain was excruciating, and I was convinced my back was completely out of whack. Every step felt like a dagger running down my spine, and I was desperate for relief. Menopause was already throwing my body into chaos, but now, this relentless pain had me questioning everything.
I did what most people would do—I sought treatment for my back. Chiropractors, massages, stretches, even resting for days at a time. Nothing worked. I was at my wit’s end. Then, a therapist took one look at me and said, It’s not your back. It’s your gut. I drive a Bentley the most comfortable car in the world and my back was still aching.
The Hidden Connection Between Your Gut and Your Back
I couldn’t believe it at first. How could something as simple as my gut health be wreaking havoc on my back? But as my therapist explained, it all made sense. When your gut is inflamed, bloated, or full of trapped air, it puts immense pressure on your lower back. The muscles tighten in response, creating the illusion of a back problem. In reality, my body was screaming at me to fix my gut health.
Not pooing regularly? That’s a problem. Constipation builds up internal pressure, forcing the gut to push against your spine. The longer waste stays inside, the more toxic it becomes, leading to systemic inflammation. Even worse, the sensitive nerve endings around the anus and lower intestines can become so tender that they send pain signals straight to your back.
I am taking this Thai herb for my gut health and have lost weight.
The Brutal but Effective Treatment
I was lucky enough to find a therapist who wasn’t afraid to literally dig deep. Most practitioners shy away from working around the anal area, but this is where a lot of the tension and blockages build up. The first time my therapist pressed into that area, I thought I was going to pass out from the pain. My lower gut and intestines felt like they were being stabbed. But I trusted the process.
With each session, the tension eased. And then something incredible happened—I started going to the toilet. Repeatedly. My body had been holding onto so much waste and trapped air that it couldn’t function properly. As soon as circulation was restored, my gut finally started working the way it should.
The Dangers of Trapped Air in Your Gut
Too much air in your stomach isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a red flag. If your gut is constantly bloated, it means something is seriously wrong. Whether it’s food intolerance, bacterial overgrowth, or poor digestion, a bloated gut leads to chronic inflammation. That inflammation spreads to other areas, including the lower back. If left untreated, it can even affect your nervous system, making pain management nearly impossible.
What Can You Do to Improve Gut Health?
The good news? You don’t have to suffer. There are plenty of natural ways to restore gut balance and relieve back pain. Here are some of the most effective strategies:
1. Fix Your Diet
If you’re constantly bloated, something in your diet is the culprit. Start eliminating the worst offenders:
- Processed foods – Full of preservatives and artificial ingredients that disrupt digestion.
- Dairy – Many people develop lactose intolerance with age.
- Gluten – A major cause of inflammation in sensitive individuals.
- Sugar – Feeds bad bacteria, causing bloating and fermentation in the gut.
Instead, focus on foods that support gut health:
- Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and yogurt for probiotics.
- High-fiber foods like chia seeds, flaxseeds, and leafy greens.
- Healthy fats like olive oil and avocado to support digestion.
2. Take Thai Herbs
Thailand has long been known for its herbal medicine, and when it comes to gut health, these herbs are lifesavers:
- Turmeric – Powerful anti-inflammatory that helps soothe the gut lining.
- Ginger – Aids digestion and relieves bloating.
- Galangal – Similar to ginger but with even stronger gut-healing properties.
- Pandan leaves – Used in Thai teas to reduce bloating and improve circulation.
- Bael fruit – A natural laxative that helps prevent constipation.
3. Massage and Pressure Therapy
Finding a therapist who understands the connection between the gut and the back is key. Deep tissue massage around the abdominal area and even the anal passage can do wonders for releasing trapped tension. If you can’t find a specialist, try self-massage techniques:
- Lay flat and gently press into your lower abdomen in a circular motion.
- Use a foam roller to roll over the belly and lower back.
- Apply warm castor oil packs to your stomach to encourage movement.
4. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is one of the most overlooked causes of constipation. If you’re not drinking enough water, your gut struggles to move waste through the intestines. Aim for at least 2-3 liters of water per day. Adding a pinch of sea salt can help with mineral absorption.
5. Improve Your Bowel Routine
Your gut loves routine. Train your body to go to the toilet at the same time every day. A few tips to encourage regular bowel movements:
- Drink warm lemon water in the morning.
- Squat instead of sitting—using a small stool under your feet can mimic a natural squat position.
- Don’t hold it in—when you feel the urge, go immediately.
6. Reduce Stress
Stress is a silent gut killer. The gut-brain connection means that emotional tension can directly affect digestion. If you’re constantly stressed, your body stays in fight-or-flight mode, shutting down digestion. Meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and spending time in nature can all help reset your nervous system and support gut function.
Final Thoughts: Listen to Your Gut
I spent months thinking I had a serious back problem when in reality, my gut was screaming for help. Menopause already throws enough at us—don’t let gut health be another battle. If you’ve been struggling with back pain that won’t go away, consider the possibility that your gut might be the real culprit.
Find a therapist who understands the deep connection between your digestive system and your muscles. Pay attention to what you eat. Use natural remedies like Thai herbs, hydration, and massage to restore balance. And most importantly, don’t ignore your body’s signals. Gut health is everything, and once you take control, the rest of your body—including your back—will thank you.
Your gut isn’t just about digestion. It’s the foundation of your overall well-being. So take care of it, and you might just find relief in places you never expected.
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