Beyond the Surface: What a Genicular Nerve Block Taught Me About Thriving with an Invisible Disability

By Alesha Brown, The Joy Guru

The Struggles Few Talk About

Public events, venues, and gatherings often fail to consider those with mobility or accessibility needs unless someone is in a wheelchair. But what about the rest of us?

• Uneven terrain or no seating options can mean hours of pain or not being able to attend at all.
• Events with no elevators or ramps can shut out people silently.
• Even “accessible” bathrooms are not always walker- or cane-friendly.

Stigma is another obstacle. People with invisible disabilities are often told:

• “You don’t look sick.”
• “You were fine yesterday.”
• “You’re too young to have those problems.”

And in minority or underserved communities, these statements are even more dangerous. They lead to being dismissed by healthcare providers, underdiagnosed, or told it’s all in your head.

The Overlooked Side Effects of Chronic Conditions

Illnesses like fibromyalgia, lupus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-COVID syndromes, and neurological conditions can lead to:

• Brain fog that makes it difficult to concentrate or remember basic tasks
• Exhaustion that isn’t relieved by rest
• Muscle weakness and limited stamina
• Forgetfulness, mood changes, and disorientation
• Unpredictable flare-ups of increased pain and inflammation

These symptoms can come and go or last for days and weeks. They affect how we show up in relationships, at work, and in life. And because they are invisible, others often assume we’re fine—or worse, exaggerating.

Fighting for Relief: My Genicular Nerve Block Experience

That’s why Episode 7 of my vlog series, Beyond the Surface: Living and Thriving with Invisible Disabilities, is so important. After my second genicular nerve block, I’m walking better—with more freedom and less pain than I’ve had in years.

This procedure blocks nerves around the knee from sending pain signals to the brain. It doesn’t mask the pain with narcotics—it targets the source. For me, it’s made daily life manageable again. Unfortunately, it is a short-term relief and must be followed by more advanced treatments. Fortunately, there are options if this works for you in the short-term.

But getting here wasn’t easy. As a Black woman, I had to push through a system that didn’t offer me real solutions. It took multiple consultations, specialists, extensive research, and tears before discovering there was help out there beyond my current treatments and options. And, news flash here, I discovered on TikTok and Google! 

From Almost Paralyzed to Powerhouse

Years ago, in the height of the pandemic, I faced a health crisis that nearly left me permanently paralyzed. My PTSD kicked in from past experiences where I had to relearn how to walk, regain control of my arms and hands, and build back my life from a place of loss, pain, and disability.

Today, I’m proud to be:

• An award-winning entrepreneur
• A bestselling author
• CEO of multiple brands
• A sought-after speaker, publisher, and film producer

And yes—someone who still deals with chronic pain every single day. I don’t share this for sympathy. I share it for hope.

Times Like These Remind Me What Matters Most

Living with invisible disabilities gives you a different lens on life. Every step I take reminds me that what truly matters is:

• Making memories with precious family and friends
• Traveling and seeing the world while I still can
• Having the flexibility of self-employment, which allows me to build a life on my terms
• Leveraging virtual spaces—from digital speaking events to online courses, content creation, and my roles in publishing and media
• Creating additional income streams through partnerships, sponsorships, and monetized platforms, which honor both my talents and my physical limitations

I’ve turned my challenges into purpose. And now, I use my platforms to amplify the stories of the voiceless, educate others, and inspire those who feel unseen.

Why I Created This Series

Beyond the Surface isn’t just a vlog. It’s a lifeline. It’s where I pull back the curtain and show the truth about navigating invisible disabilities in a world that doesn’t always see us. It’s also where I educate, empower, and inspire those who are suffering in silence.

Catch Episode 7 now on YouTube at @AleshaBrownTheJoyGuru, and be sure to watch the full journey from the beginning (see below).

We Need More Awareness. We Need More Access.

If you’re reading this and fighting your own invisible battle, please know: you are not alone. You deserve care. You deserve compassion. And you deserve the same access to healing and support as anyone else.

Your Turn: Have you struggled with an invisible disability? What would you want the world to know about how you live, survive, and even thrive despite the pain?

Share your truth in the comments below. Let’s create a space where we lift each other and say, we see you.