Thriving at 70: A Real Story of Healing Through Movement and Holistic Care
Aug 01, 2025
Staying active as we age isn’t just about fitness — it’s about freedom. Freedom to move without pain, to enjoy your day without stiffness slowing you down, and to feel like your body supports the life you want to live. But years of work, stress, or old injuries can quietly build up, leaving you with aches and limitations that feel impossible to overcome.
At Form Function and Flow Lab, we help people rewrite that story. Laurie, now 70, had spent decades living with pain, so much so that daily medication felt like her only option. Through a holistic plan that addressed both the root causes of her discomfort and the way her body moved, she found lasting relief and a renewed sense of strength. Her journey proves that it’s never too late to feel better and do more of what you love.
Non-Invasive Therapies for Pain Relief
Non-invasive therapies offer an effective alternative to surgery and long-term medication for managing chronic pain. Instead of masking symptoms, these approaches focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of discomfort, promoting natural healing, and restoring balance to the body. For many, this means improved mobility, less reliance on painkillers, and a better quality of life without the risks that invasive procedures or long-term drug use can bring.
Laurie’s experience illustrates these benefits clearly. For over 20 years, she depended on as many as eight Advil a day just to manage her pain. Years of long commutes and an old car accident had added layers of stress to her body, leaving her hips, feet, and jaw in constant tension. After beginning non-invasive treatments, including shockwave therapy and personalized exercises, she was able to wean off all pain medications and reclaim a life full of movement.
Shockwave Therapy for Chronic Pain
Shockwave therapy uses focused sound waves to stimulate tissue repair and calm stubborn pain, particularly in areas that haven’t responded to other care. By increasing circulation and encouraging the body’s natural healing process, this therapy can accelerate recovery and offer long-term relief without surgery or drugs.
For Laurie, shockwave therapy was a game-changer. Targeting pain in her hip, foot, and other problem spots, the treatment helped release years of built-up tension. Combined with stress management techniques and specific exercises, it allowed her to regain freedom of movement and reduce discomfort, proving how this focused therapy can be an essential part of a holistic healing plan.
Holistic Care for Active Aging
Holistic care embraces the whole person, blending targeted therapies with lifestyle changes that support long-term health and vitality. This approach not only relieves pain but also helps prevent future issues by promoting overall balance, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the body’s natural resilience. By focusing on multiple aspects of wellness, it becomes possible to maintain independence and enjoy an active life well into later years.
Laurie’s journey reflects this balanced approach perfectly. Alongside shockwave therapy, she incorporated several key practices that addressed the root causes of her discomfort and helped her body heal. These include:
- Stress Management: Stress patterns show up in the body, even when we don’t notice them. Laurie discovered she was clenching her jaw (after insisting she wasn’t!) during a visit; that tension linked into her hips and pelvic floor, amplifying pain during long drives.
- Lymphatic Support: The lymphatic system is essential for clearing inflammation and waste from the body. Laurie used vibration plate therapy to stimulate lymph flow, which reduced swelling in her left shoulder, face, and chest, as well as her right foot around the great toe and outer edge.
Movement as Medicine
Movement is one of the most powerful tools for healing and maintaining health as we age. Gentle, consistent activity helps reduce inflammation, keep joints lubricated, and strengthen the muscles that support proper alignment. Beyond the physical benefits, regular movement also supports mental well-being, improves circulation, and prevents the stiffness and pain that often come from a sedentary lifestyle.
Laurie’s active routine is a testament to this truth. She swims, rides her bike, and tends her garden with energy and confidence—activities that not only keep her body strong but also bring her joy. In fact, she’s more active now than she was in her 50s or 60s, proving that movement truly can be medicine when paired with the right support and care.
Thriving in later years isn’t about avoiding pain altogether—it’s about creating the conditions for your body to heal, adapt, and stay strong. Avoiding reliance on pain medications, making time for self-care, and addressing the root causes of discomfort all contribute to better sleep, improved mood, and lasting energy. These are the building blocks of a vibrant, independent life.
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Dr. Kate Eckert is a chiropractor and yoga teacher specializing in biomechanics and rehabilitation, with a strong focus on dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS). Her holistic approach integrates various techniques, including self-myofascial release and neurokinetic therapy, promoting efficient healing and a comprehensive understanding of the body’s connections.
Resources:
Website: https://www.formfunctionandflowlab.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550346148129
