Case Study: Maddie’s 9-Year Journey Out of Pain – How Massage Matters Changed Everything

A Simple Injury, Years of Pain

At 16, Maddie was an active teenager living in the Algarve, playing football, skateboarding, thriving in sports. But a sharp pain behind her shin marked the beginning of something no one could explain. The discomfort returned again and again, increasing in intensity until even walking became a struggle.

Local doctors put it down to growing pains and prescribed painkillers. When the pain became unbearable, emergency visits led to the same advice: ice it, rest, take medication. Maddie did as she was told, but nothing changed.

Searching for a Cure

Over the years, Maddie’s family explored every option – from long drives to alternative practitioners promising miracle cures, to appointments with GPs and specialists across Portugal, Romania and the UK. She underwent scans and chiropractic treatment, tried supplements and lumbar supports, and was finally told her MRI showed a disc bulge. But still, no one could offer a clear path to recovery.

By the time she graduated university and moved to Oxfordshire, Maddie had come to believe that pain would always be part of her life. Medication was her coping mechanism, and even small joys like walking or playing tennis felt out of reach.

A Chance Encounter at Massage Matters

Looking for some comfort, Maddie booked a massage with Beth at Massage Matters. Beth listened carefully, asked thoughtful questions, and, rather than proceed with treatment,  suggested Maddie speak to clinic lead John Holman.

That moment changed everything. 

Finally, a Breakthrough

John took Maddie through a detailed assessment and within ten minutes said words she’d been waiting to hear for nine years: “I think I know what it is – and I think I know how to treat it.” 

His diagnosis? Myofascial Pain Syndrome – a chronic condition caused by sensitive “trigger points” in the fascia, the thin connective tissue that surrounds muscles. These trigger points can cause referred pain, meaning the discomfort may be felt far from the source. It’s a condition often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, and it’s not visible on scans like X-rays or MRIs. But to a trained therapist, the signs are there.

John’s confidence came not from guesswork, but from experience. And this time, Maddie’s treatment plan would be entirely drug-free. 

Recovery – At Last

Over the next few months, Maddie received weekly massage therapy, with John using his specialist knowledge of myofascial release techniques. The results were remarkable. For the first time in nearly a decade, her pain began to ease – steadily, consistently, and completely naturally.

In under four months, Maddie had her life back. She was exercising again, walking pain-free, and even playing full tennis matches. No painkillers. No flare-ups. Just freedom. 

More Than Just a Massage

Maddie’s story isn’t just about recovery – it’s about being truly heard. She credits the team at Massage Matters not only for their skill, but their collaborative approach. 

“It’s refreshing and highly commendable that therapists with less experience are able and willing to refer complex issues to the more experienced therapists within the clinic. That’s a sign of true professionals working together.” 

John went above and beyond – not only treating Maddie, but helping her understand her condition, recommending resources, and encouraging her every step of the way.

“It may have taken me nine years to find Massage Matters, but I cannot tell you how grateful I am that I did.”