From Back Pain to 122 Miles: How Chiropractic Care Made the Camino Português Possible
At Adjust NRV, we have the privilege of walking alongside patients through some of their biggest challenges, victories, and life-changing goals. Today, we’re excited to share the story of one patient whose journey embodies resilience, trust, and the power of chiropractic care.
A Life Built Around Movement
For Deanna, being active has always been part of who she is. Whether she’s out hiking, training for half marathons, or enjoying any kind of outdoor adventure, movement brings her joy and purpose.
But in April 2025, everything stopped.
Severe back pain hit—suddenly and intensely. It became difficult for Deanna to bend over far enough to tie a shoe, much less enjoy a run or a hike. She knew she needed help.
After hearing great things about the team at Adjust NRV, she reached out and was seen almost immediately. That’s when she met Dr. Skinner—and things began to change.
“He told me that I deserved better,” she said. “And the relief came quickly.”
Preparing for a Life-Changing Goal
Before the pain started, Deanna had been training for a major adventure with her cousin: hiking the Camino Português in Spain and Portugal in September 2025. As her back pain worsened, she worried she wouldn’t be able to do the trek—or any of the smaller training events leading up to it.
But Dr. Skinner guided her through small, manageable steps. His own Ironman experience gave him insight into strength training, pacing, and supportive exercises that made all the difference.
Still, flare-ups happened. And two weeks before her departure, another severe one hit.
“I was desperate. Thankfully, Dr. Skinner was able to see me immediately. I knew getting the much needed relief would be a major part of my success.”
122 Miles. 10 Days. Pain-Free.
“The pain just stopped.”
Deanna completed 122 miles in 10 days on the Portuguese Way, and 178 total miles including walking around towns and hotels. It was more than she hoped or expected—an accomplishment that felt impossible just months earlier.
When she returned in October, Deanna shared the entire journey with Dr. Skinner.
“It was fantastic.”
She’s now a practice member and comes in regularly for adjustments with zero flare-ups, focusing on rebuilding strength, shifting away from running, and enjoying Pilates at Pulse Pilates in Blacksburg. (“I didn’t know I had muscles there!”)
She’s even loosely planning what’s next with her cousin.
What She Wishes Others Knew About Chiropractic Care
“Integrate it into your health regimen.”
Chiropractic care has become an essential part of her routine—another tool in her health toolbox. She knows that without consistency, the flare-ups could return.
One of her biggest eye-openers? Seeing how her body balanced weight unevenly on a scale—over a 20-pound difference, which she has since normalized to under 5.
Why She Chooses Adjust NRV
“The care they give is far superior to anything else I’ve heard about.”
It’s not only Dr. Brooke and Dr. Skinner who makes a difference—she speaks highly of Danielle as well.
“The most customer-service-oriented person. A total dynamo.”
She’s deeply appreciative of everything the team has done for her, and we’re honored to be part of her wellness journey.
