My brother (also my neighbor) has a zero-gravity massage chair he lets me use. Through my chiropractor’s recommendations over the years, my wife and I invested in:
An infrared sauna
A complete sleep system
A higher-end multi-axis zero-gravity massage chair
Supporting science:
Zero-gravity positioning dramatically reduces spinal compression and lower-back pressure, improves circulation, and is widely recommended for chronic back pain and post-injury recovery. (Relax The Back, Human Touch, Titan Chair research summaries)
Infrared sauna increases blood flow, reduces muscle soreness and inflammation, accelerates removal of metabolic waste, and improves neuromuscular recovery after physical stress or injury. Studies show measurable improvements in power output and reduced delayed-onset muscle soreness. (PMC study 2023; Infrared Saunas Australia clinical review)
Today, in our 60s, my wife and I stay active and enjoy life thanks to this in-home recovery system.
Conclusion: Lessons Learned and Advice to Others
Safety first – Wear a helmet (mine saved my life). Don’t race on lakes. Watch for hidden ice blocks—obey DNR rules and mark holes.
Attitude matters – I refused to accept “normal” as my ceiling. Humor and determination helped.
Get the right care fast – Level I trauma centers and specialized rehab facilities make a difference.
Don’t ignore new pain – Even injuries that seem unrelated can be addressed successfully with chiropractic and wellness tools.
Recovery is possible – A 20-day coma, punctured lung, and broken ribs did not define my future. With family support, excellent medical care, and proactive long-term habits, I regained—and kept—a full life.
If you or someone you love is facing a similar injury, know this: the brain and body have amazing healing capacity when given the right environment and support.
Thank you for reading. Ride safe, live well, and never underestimate what you can recover from.
Greg Reding
February 2026
References:
Beilman GJ et al. Risk factors and patterns of injury in snowmobile crashes. Wilderness Environ Med. 1999.
Minnesota DNR – Ice spearing regulations and hole-marking requirements.
Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Brigham and Women’s Hospital – Pneumothorax and rib-fracture complications.
Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC) – Understanding TBI recovery stages.
Regions Hospital – Official Level I Trauma Center documentation.
Bethesda Hospital historical records (1883–2020) – Brain injury and long-term acute care services.
Peer-reviewed summaries on chiropractic post-trauma care (various 2024–2025 clinical sites).
PMC studies on infrared sauna for neuromuscular recovery (2022–2023).
Manufacturer-independent reviews of zero-gravity positioning for spinal decompression.