My Hinge Health member story: Chris

Hinge Health is a new kind of digital clinic for joint and muscle pain and pelvic symptoms— one built around members, their lives, and their needs. And it’s backed by life-changing outcomes and real savings.

Here, meet Hinge Health member Chris, who struggled with neck pain. In this video and interview, Chris shares how a combination of short, convenient exercise sessions and support from his coach helped him to regain his mobility and enjoy quality time with his daughter without the constant worry of pain 

Learn more here about how Hinge Health can help your organization or to request a demo.

For Chris, an IT specialist in Virginia, chronic neck pain was an unwelcome co-worker. Despite his best efforts, the pain followed him everywhere — sitting at his desk, commuting, and even during his downtime.

‘It didn’t happen overnight’

Chris thinks his neck pain developed gradually from a number of factors: desk work, carrying a bag on one shoulder, hunching up his shoulders against the cold and wind while commuting, and general tension, he explains.

“I stopped being physically active because I was so focused on the pain, which made the issue worse,” he says. “It also affected me psychologically. I felt depressed thinking that this was my future as I got older.”

'I tried everything’

Chris tried a long list of approaches: ergonomic work space adjustments, chiropractic treatments, acupuncture, massage, and self-care tools. 

He also tried traditional in-person physical therapy, but “it took at least an hour out of my day, including travel and wait time,” he explains. “It was helpful, but I didn’t follow through with the homework, so my pain continued.” 

A new approach

Three years ago, Chris found out about Hinge Health through his insurance provider. He was ready for something different. “The technology and convenience appealed to me the most,” he says. “I could follow exercises on my phone in the comfort of my own home, at my own pace, and on my own schedule,” he explains. 

Gradual improvement

Slowly, Chris started noticing changes. “I had better neck mobility and could do post-workout stretches without pain.” He stayed patient. “I knew that if it took years for me to develop this muscle tension, it would take some time to undo it,” he says. “I just had to put in the work.” 

What worked for Chris

Chris loves the short sessions that fit his busy schedule and that he can use the app on his personal phone. “I can do everything in 15 minutes. It’s a lot more time-friendly,” he says.

His coach was a major motivator. “Regular check-ins and knowing someone was holding me accountable made me more committed to doing the exercises and hitting my goals,” he says. And having the same coach for three years has been a huge plus. “She knows where I started and where I am today,” he says. “She’s been a lifeline for me.”

Biggest rewards

"There’s nothing I wouldn't do for my daughter," Chris says. "Now I have more energy and can play with her without worrying about pain.”

Seeing his daughter's smile and hearing her laughter makes it all worth it for Chris. "I'm excited to continue doing things with her without being bothered by pain and find new activities we can enjoy together as she grows."