Success in Tampa Bay Overcoming Back Pain

Allow me to answer the “million dollar” question that may ultimately cross your mind at any moment as you read this success story---No, I am not being held at gunpoint, I am not being paid, nor was I persuaded in any way to write this letter. Quite the opposite in fact. I am sincerely more than willing to share my personal success story involving Dr. Robert Levine and the Florida Biomechanics Group. At the age of 19, I’d lost over 110lbs. Most of my success at the time was due to a newly active lifestyle. As a daily routine, my exercise of choice was to run. I’m 32 now. After years of enjoying my passion for running I was very much dis-heartened to wake up in the mornings with aches and pains in both of my feet. Did I strain a muscle? A Tendon? Surely it must just be a bad pair of shoes. After all I was only 29 years old. Little did I know this seemingly insignificant distraction was the beginning of what would turn out to be a fight to save my enthusiasm, my joy and my passion. Over the course of the next 3 years I educated myself with reading materials on the subject of Biomechanics. I made appointments with a slew of doctors whose specialty and expertise was solely in the area of foot pain. I was willing to spend any amount of money and I was willing to follow any diagnosis short of surgery. I was so disappointed that nothing and no one seemed to have the answers that my body was searching for. Here’s what was suggested----------and here’s what I tried: (some of these were on going treatments for years)

. Reflexology (foot massage)
. Electrical therapy
. Light wave therapy
. Physical therapy
. Sound wave therapy
. Hot soaks/cold soaks
. The Graston Technique
. Root orthotics (Root being the “founding father” of shoe orthotics)
. Cortisone shots
. B-12 shots
. Walking boots
. Crutches
. Oral steroids
. Ointments and crèmes
. NSAIDS
. Daily stretching
. A closet full of new shoes

Although some of the above provided relief for a day or two, none of them got to the heart of the matter. That’s when I met Dr. Robert Levine and the Florida Biomechanics Group. His office was a good 45 minutes to an hour for me to commute too---and for this reason I almost dismissed going to see him. Another doctor, another suggestion……..another waste of time for sure. Much to my surprise, he was able to give me a new perspective on his profession within minutes of entering the room on the very 1st appointment. His explanations, experience and expertise helped me to understand why my feet were experiencing pain. There is much more to this story but all you need to know for sure is this….Within one week of wearing  a pair of orthotics that were made by his group, there was an undeniable change in the way my feet had felt in years. Within 3 months I am 99.99% totally back to normal. I have noticed a total decrease in fatigue throughout my working day. My knees, my back and my mind is young and free again. I have also learned one valuable lesson that I feel inclined to share with you. From my experiences, there appear to be many “self-proclaimed” experts in the area of foot restoration and care. I am truly thankful that during my long 3 year trial, I was eventually able to meet a “real life” expert right here in my local area. Thanks Dr. Levine always.

Respectfully,
Andrew Alfonso

I have always been athletic. Participating in sports all my life. I started participating in the sport of triathlon 3 years ago. During my training I frequently battled plantar fasciatis, IT band syndrome, hip pain, and an achy low back. I had weak ankles and they were always sore. I wore store bought orthotics but the problems still persisted. I always thought the aches and pains were normal, part of the training process. After all, I was having success at all distances, especially 70.3 races. I qualified for Clearwater 70.3 where I posted a time of 4.45. The run has always been my strength, but I was still having problems with IT band, heel, hip, and low back. Yes my whole body was miss-aligned. I paid several very expensive massage therapists to work out my aches and pains. This had only a band aide effect on my symptoms.

I recalled seeing Dr. Levine’s ad in Race Place magazine. I figured I had nothing to lose. I was skeptical because I had Doctor made orthotics in the past as well as store bought and nothing worked to my expectations. So I got a pair of orthotics several months ago from Dr. Levine. The orthotics are amazing and they work. Unlike other Dr. made orthotics, his are adjustable in his office to fit your needs. I no longer have any of the chronic nagging aches and pains I had before. My legs are much stronger and I recover faster from runs. My run splits are faster. I can rum faster and further than before. I don’t get as tired. Sometimes when I’m running in races and run past other races I say to myself  “if you only knew what I have in my shoes.” Sometimes I feel like I’m cheating. I like them so much I purchased a second pair for everyday use and a pair for running.

Lance Chambers

I was doing triathlons and when I ran I was always feeling heavy footed with sciatica. On the bike the sciatic has been bad since I went to nationals in 1997. Three back surgeries’ later my sciatic was still there but the pain going down the leg stopped. I came to see Dr. Levine. I feel very good now when I run. I started using my orthotics on the bike and I have not had sciatica for over a month. This is the first time in years. My triathlon times can only get better. Dr. Levine I want to thank you and your staff for everything.

Sincerely,
Lisa Pesta

In recent years I have been plagued by back problems that have gotten progressively worse.  The problems had gotten to the point where there was continuous pain in the lower right back and buttocks, back spasms, back and neck stiffness, and some degree of numbness in the right leg.  I play a lot of golf and love to compete in tournaments throughout Florida and sometimes out of state.  These back issues were severely affecting my level of play as well as my ability to play multiple days in a row.  Frequently the pain would reach levels that made it impossible to play for days at a time and made even the simplest everyday activities a chore.

Over the last few years I have been to my family doctor, chiropractor, neurosurgeon, physical therapists, had a spinal injection, and do daily stretching and strengthening exercises, but still the pain and stiffness persisted.  I would have brief periods of relief but they were short lived.  I didn’t see much hope in the way of a more lasting remedy.

I received my orthotics in April and started wearing them with guarded optimism given my recent history of medical futility.  I immediately noticed a sensation of feeling taller and was aware of an improved posture.  Within a few weeks of getting them I traveled to Richmond, Virginia to play in a golf tournament.  With practice and tournament rounds, I played five days in a row, all the while walking the hilly golf course each day.  I had been worried that as in recent multiday tournaments I could possibly be hurting so bad that I wouldn’t even be able to play.  But I experienced only minor discomfort over the five days and was able to perform well enough to win my division.  Needless to say I was happier than I've been in a long time believing that perhaps this was finally the answer I had been searching for.

That was three months ago and since that time I have noticed my body going through some transitions and definitely feel stronger than I have in years.  I have played in five other tournaments over this period with no major problems or any episodes of intense pain.  I noticed that I am hitting the ball farther off the tee as I am able to swing with less restriction and better posture and am highly confident that my physical condition will only continue to improve.

Rick Powers

I really wasn’t sure it would make a difference in how I walk, how it would give me better balance, how it was going to make those back aches disappear, and how it would give me more pleasure on the golf course.  In fact, I really doubted it would make a significant change in my walking, and comfort level.

I have my second pair of orthotics, when Dr. Levine first suggested I try them, I was hesitant, they cost a great deal of money, but it was the right decision, it has made such a difference, I wear them 95% of the day.  Without them my legs get very tired and uncomfortable, I may never get to have the golf score I dream of, I did get a hole in one, and I can enjoy biking, walking and swimming.

Physically, Dr. Levine says I no longer have one leg longer than the other, my hips, my spine are all in better alignment.  I continue to see him to check the orthotics, when I feel there is a change I can call immediately.  I love how he was able to convince me to take this step, I appreciate his continued concern.

If you question the need when Dr. Levine suggests trying orthotics, I recommend you take his advice.  You must make a commitment to follow his instructions, it takes a little time but when your feet become accustomed to them, you will find a big difference and will be very happy you took his advice.

Barbara Sparar

Dear Dr. Levine,

Thank you so much for my two pairs of orthotics.  I really wanted to write this letter because you have helped me so much – not only has my back pain improved, but my golf game as well!

During the last four years I have had three back surgeries and have been on serious medication.  I'm an avid golfer and have not been able to play my best because of the constant pain.  I've been playing golf 2-3 times a week and have maintained a 17-19 handicap for the last five years.

After wearing my orthotics for two months, I decided to try them in my golf shoes because they had interchangeable insoles.  The day I happened to play a good round of golf and shot an 86.

Being a student of golf, the basics of any good golf swing is balance and repetition.  Without proper balance, repetition is virtually impossible.  I realized that while wearing my orthotics I am able to stand in a consistent, comfortable position.  My balance seemed more normal as I addressed the ball.  

Anyway, to make a long story shorter, I lowered my handicap by six strokes in five weeks!  I didn’t even buy a $400 driver or a $300 putter – the only difference in my game of golf was that I was wearing my orthotics.

I've also been able to decrease my medication.  So Thank you, Dr. Levine not just for my back, but for the rebirth of my golf game!

Sincerely,
Charles Stanley

I am 38 years old and was in very good health except for my severe lower back problems. About three years ago, I was seriously considering life-changing back surgery because I could no longer handle the constant and excruciatingly severe pain in my lower back caused by a herniated disc and several degenerative discs. I wanted to avoid the surgery at all costs because of all the negative things I had heard about back surgery and what I had witnessed personally from friends and relatives who had elected to have back surgery, but I was literally at the end of my rope.

I was fortunate enough to be introduced to Dr. Levine and the orthotic inserts he manufactures before I went under the knife and it simply changed my life.

I flew into Tampa from my home in Mandeville, Louisiana and Dr. Levine saw me in his office during the day….by that same evening, I was wearing my orthotics. The very next day, my mother-in-law and I took my children for a daylong trip to Busch Gardens. Normally, any extended amount of time spent walking around, etc. would have had me in sheer agony but Dr. Levine’s orthotics had alleviated all of the severe symptoms of my chronic lower back problem. Over time, my condition improved to the point where I was playing golf again and, most importantly, living a normal life without the risks and side-effects of major back surgery.

On August 29, 2005 Hurricane Katrina devastated southeast Louisiana and the eastern Gulf Coast. My home in Mandeville, Louisiana sustained severe structural damage as a result of the storm –18 of our trees (mostly very large pine trees) were felled by Katrina and no less than six of them were inside the house to varying degrees. Those initial months after the storm were very trying both emotionally and physically with all the cleanup and repair work that needed to be done. However, my back was able to stand up to all the intense physical labor as well as the emotional stress that comes along with such a natural disaster and our house is 100% back to normal. Had I not been under Dr. Levine’s care I cannot see how I would have been able to physically make it through such an ordeal. Like said before, the orthotics Dr. Levine produces simply changed my life and I can never thank him enough for what he has given back to me.

Tommy Sandoz

Thank you! Thank you!
My new orthotics are the best I have ever worn in the past 40 years!! My heel pain has fully dissipated and I have no lower back pain that I have suffered from prior to these orthotics. I fully endorse them

Stewart Krug

Sincerely,
Clare Peacock

PS When my daughter went to Washington DC and had to walk an average of 5 miles a day to and from the metro, Dr. Levine worked with her during her vacation visits here and actually spoke with her long distance to get her over the hardest times. She had really let the pain build to a very high level. She is now pain free!

Dear Dr. Levine,

At age 65 I’m finally back to running again after a 20 year layoff due to chronic lower back pain. Your treatment with Orthotics gave me back one of my greatest joys in life----running!!! Prior to your treatment I would suffer severe lower back pain after jogging less than a mile. Now I am able to run three miles several times per week without any pain. I am currently training for an upcoming triathlon and I hope to increase my running to about five miles several days per week.

I must admit that I was skeptical, but your optimism convinces me to give your treatment a try. I have absolutely no regrets. In fact, I am immensely grateful to you for giving me back this very important part of my life!!

Sincerely,
Leo Garcia
Tampa, Fl.

I am 54 years old and have had lower back herniated disk problems for about 30 years which made it painful to sit for long periods of time, left heavy objects or run. I have had to go regularly to the chiropractor for maintenance adjustments but my adjustments didn’t hold very long. I have had several episodes where I was bedridden for long periods of time.

I always felt like there was also a problem with my feet because one foot was a bit smaller than the other and I had a hitch in my stride.

I spent a lot of time finding the best shoes and insoles I could find for my feet. I also considered getting custom shoes since no commercial shoe really fit me well.

My Chiropractor recommended Dr. Levine to me as a foot doctor she thought could help me with custom orthotic arch supports and compliment her spine adjustments.

I got the orthotics two months ago and have had profound changes. I have more energy and sleep about 2 hours less per night. I have more energy at the end of the day and am working more hours. I am able to sit in my chair for long periods of time without discomfort. I need less exercise and stretching which I used to have to do a lot for maintenance to delay pain returning. Now walking feels like walking on air. Now my Chiropractor adjustments are holding longer and longer and I am doing much better. Now my shoes fit perfectly and I walk straight.

I think everyone in the world should have a custom pair of these orthotics. Give it two months and you will see a big change.

Sincerely,
Steve Littler

I was in pain for the last 25 years suffering from low back pain. I was unable to participate in any active sport activity except on a very limited basis during this depressive period of my life. I was becoming a couch potato, irritable, fat and ugly.

I had been treated by the medical profession for my low back pain receiving massages, heat and cold treatments for relief. They were temporary in nature and resulted in depression and an anxiety state of mind.

When my wonderful wife convinced me to see here Podiatrist, Dr. Levine, approximately five years ago for a foot problem, a minor miracle happened when my foot problem was treated successfully by an orthotics appliance which was measured and prescribed by Dr. Levine. My back and foot problems disappeared following a few months of treatment. In fact, I ordered a second pair of Dr. Levine’s orthotics inserts which I use exclusively for my golf shoes. I now participate actively and regularly in golfing and bowling to my heart’s content.

I am a 78 year old male adult, diabetic with high blood pressure enjoying the great life of a 50 year old retiree living in the state of Florida.

I strongly urge anyone suffering from low back pain to have Dr. Levine treat them for this condition as they may lessen their low back pain as the result of a foot problem as was in my case.

P.S. I made my first hole-in-one on a 171 yard hole this past February 6, 2005

Edmund J. Pritz

Before getting the orthotics put in my shoes, my back was hurting so much that I could not run without severe back pain. After getting my orthotics put in my shoes for one month I am now able to run with no pain in my back and it’s the best my back has felt in years!

Thanks for fixing my back. I would of never thought it was my feet causing my back pain.

Tim Caulo

Dr. Levine urged me to have orthotics made for my very, very, very flat feet, claiming that they would help my knees which were painful and my lower back as well. I am glad I listened to him, because everything he said came true and I am on my 3rd pair of orthotics, which I keep permanently in my shoes.

Thank you Florida Biomechanics Group.
J. Machbitz

I would like to thank Dr. Robert Levine and his entire team for improving my comfort of life by allowing me to walk again without pain.

In 1999 I had an operation for severe Hallux Rigidus and throughout the years after (the operation), the pain (in my foot) got to the point where I had to adjust my body (mechanics) when walking, which actually caused back pain as well.

With the effort and experience of Dr.Levine and staff I was fitted with corrective shoe inserts (arch supports) and had follow-up visits to actually learn to walk again. It has been only 45 days now, and not only can I walk without pain, I can run and do the normal daily activities of life.

Thank You Dr. Levine and Staff

Don. W .,
Gulfport, Florida

In recent years, I have been experiencing pain which I attributed to past injuries throughout several areas of my body. After meeting with Dr. Levine about the pain in my feet and Achilles tendonitis, he suggested (foot) orthotics, claiming that their support would help to straighten out my body and fix some of my aches.

In less than four months, a large percentage of my back pain has left and I no longer experience any pain in my knees. My feet and ankles are on the mend and for the first time in two years I can stand or walk all day without discomfort. Thank you Florida BioMechanics Group!

Daryl Hill

Dear Dr. Levine,

I want to thank you for your patience in getting me back to wanting to walk due to my now being pain free! You worked very hard to get me comfortable using my “old” orthotics before suggesting that I try your new orthotics. You did not pressure me and let it be my decision as to how long I wanted to have my hip, back and foot pain.

Now with the new orthotics and the new sturdy walking shoes I am now pain free and can walk for hours. (you know I love to walk at Disney). It is now a joy to get up in the morning.

I would also like to thank Dr. John, Jennifer and Lee for their encouragement and help to make me pain free.

Sincerely,

Wanda J. B.