Will Scott from Ulverston found lasting relief for persistent back pain and is enjoying life walking and running in the hills again… 

“I wasn’t sure where my life was heading when my back problem got so bad around my 50th birthday that I couldn’t even pick up my own rucksack. I’ve always loved walking and running in the hills—it’s why I left teaching to become an outdoor instructor. But last April, I hit a major setback. I had to go off sick, and it wasn’t just my passion for the outdoors at risk; it was my livelihood too. 

I’ll be honest, I was really worried. I’ve had back problems for as long as I can remember, and over the years, I’d tried different physios and osteopaths. They’d give me temporary relief during flare-ups, but nothing ever got to the root of the problem. I’d rest, recover, and carry on, but over time, the flare-ups got worse. I started to think I’d never be able to run in the fells again. 

Then, after a particularly nasty relapse, I was recommended to Michael Otto. At first, I wasn’t expecting much. I just wanted to get back on my feet and back to work as soon as possible. But Michael’s approach was completely different to anything I’d experienced before. 

Michael didn’t just treat me—he taught me. He showed me how to move properly, address my muscle imbalances, and breathe effectively. It challenged the way I’d always approached things, especially as someone who’s used to pushing myself hard out on the hills. But it worked. 

After a few sessions, I was walking pain-free for two hours, which was my initial goal. Then I pushed for more—walking pain-free all day, carrying heavy loads, and eventually, Michael suggested we go for a short run. I hadn’t run in 15 years, and I’d pretty much given up on it altogether. But he told me there was no reason I couldn’t run again with the right techniques. And he was right. Now, I can run for an hour without any pain, several times a week. 

Michael’s treatments were always purposeful and effective. Even when he worked on areas of my body that didn’t seem directly related to my back, I noticed improvements after every session. The pain kept reducing, and I felt stronger and more confident. I trusted his expertise completely—and I’m so glad I did. 

Michael also helped me change the way I thought about my pain. He made me realise that healing comes from within, and as someone who’s used to relying on myself out on the hills, that really resonated with me. I stopped fighting the pain, relaxed, and became more patient. 

Now, I’m not just back to doing what I love—I’m doing more than I ever thought possible. I’ve even signed up for the OMM mountain marathon later this year. All I wanted was to walk without pain, but Michael’s physiotherapy has got me running again, feeling strong, and ready to take on big challenges. 

If you’re in Ulverston and struggling with pain or mobility issues, I can’t recommend Michael enough. His approach has been a life-changer for me.”