Insight Pain Management – One of the most common types of pain in the United States is back pain. Almost 65 million Americans report experiencing back pain each year and it is currently the leading cause of disability. Despite it being one of the most common health conditions in the United States, there are still many misconceptions about its causes, treatments, and prevention that can prevent people from receiving proper care. In this blog from the team at Insight Pain Management, we’ll debunk some of the common myths about back pain and share a few tips on how you prevent and manage pain effectively.
Myth 1: Surgery is the Only Way to Alleviate Back Pain
Most cases of back pain do not require surgery. In fact, back pain generally improves with the help of treatments like medications, physical therapy, and chiropractic care. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise and losing weight, are also highly effective. Surgery is always reserved as a last resort for pain that is not responding to conservative treatments or for severe conditions such as herniated discs and spinal stenosis.
Myth 2: Back Pain is Always the Result of an Injury
Although many cases of back pain are caused by an injury or overuse, it is also common to experience back pain without the occurrence of any specific injury. Something as simple as poor posture, sitting for an extended period of time, or stress can lead to the development of chronic back pain. Back pain can also develop from an underlying health condition such as arthritis or osteoporosis. Being mindful of your posture, daily exercise, and stress management are all great ways to prevent back pain.
Myth 3: Exercise Should Be Avoided If You Have Back Pain
It may seem counterintuitive, but exercise is actually one of the best ways to both treat and prevent back pain. Exercise not only enhances flexibility and strengthens the muscles that support the spine, but it also increases blood flow throughout the body and helps with maintaining or losing weight. If you are experiencing back pain, opt for low impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga. As always, it is important to first consult with your doctor before exercising with back pain. They can also provide recommendations tailored to your specific condition.
Myth 4: Back Pain is Just Part of Old Age
It is common for older adults to experience back pain from age-related degenerative conditions such as arthritis. However, it does not have to be an assumed part of old age. Many older people have little or no back pain, which is typically achieved by staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding poor posture. If you are over 65, focus on low-impact activities like walking or yoga. Aquatic therapy is also very safe and can improve balance and flexibility. It is also important to avoid heavy lifting and remembering to take frequent breaks while performing strenuous chores to prevent hurting your back.
Myth 5: My Back Pain Will Go Away On Its Own
Some instances of acute back pain may eventually improve without treatment. However, if you are experiencing chronic back pain that lasts more than a few weeks, it is likely the result of an underlying injury or condition that should be assessed by a healthcare professional. Ignoring back pain can lead to further complications that can be more difficult to treat at a later time. If you are experiencing back pain that lasts longer than a few days to a few weeks or an injury, be proactive and schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional who can identify the root cause of your symptoms and recommend the best treatment.
Don’t let myths about back pain keep you from getting the treatment you need! When you understand the truth behind some of these common misconceptions, you will not only be able to take better care of your body, you will also understand when it is time to visit a physician. If you are experiencing chronic back pain, the team at Insight Pain Management can help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is bed rest the best way to treat back pain?
A: Although rest is helpful in treating back pain, prolonged periods of rest can actually do more harm than good. Instead, light activity and movement is generally recommended to keep your muscles strong and promote healing.
Q: How can a pain management physician help treat my back pain?
A: Pain management physicians are specially trained to diagnose back pain and develop treatment plans tailored to a patient’s unique needs. This may include a multidisciplinary approach, including medication management, interventional procedures like injections, physical therapy, lifestyle counseling, and minimally invasive procedures.
Q: Is surgery the only option for back pain?
A: No. Most cases of back pain do not require surgery. People with back pain often find success through a combination of non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, chiropractic care, and lifestyle changes.