The Truth About Back Pain
Back pain is a common occurrence. 80percent of people will experience significant back pain at one point throughout their lives. The symptoms of back pain vary from one person to another. They may be acute or dull, long-lasting, or a short time. Back pain myths are not uncommon. Are you able to recognize the truths and myths that are based on them?
Myth: Always Sit Up Straight
It is well-known that sitting in chairs can be harmful to your back. But, sitting too straight could be a source of irritation for your back.
To ease back pain that is caused by prolonged sitting and bending back, try alternating sitting back while putting your feet on the floor, with some slight curvature in the lower back. Also, try standing for a portion of the day whenever you can (for instance, when you’re working on your phone or reading).
Myth: Don’t Lift Heavy Objects
If you lift, the method you lift that’s most important, not only the weight you’re lifting. When lifting, aim to stay near to your object as is possible by squatting to lift. Make use of your legs and arms to raise. Do not force your body to move your body during lifting, however, be cautious and don’t attempt to lift massive weights beyond your ability.
Myth: Bed Rest Is Always Best
Bed rest may help with an injury or back pain that is acute. However, it’s not necessarily true that you have to rest in your bed for long periods. Being in bed in a fixed position could cause back pain to get worse. Bed rest was once common advice to treat back discomfort. However, doctors of today tend to suggest moderate activity while you recover.
Myth: Pain Is Caused by Injury
If you are lifting weighty objects in your work environment regularly it is more likely to experience back discomfort. The weight and posture of your objects definitely can contribute to or worsen the pain. However, those who work in a sedentary environment are much more likely to suffer disc injuries than those physically active. As high as 85% of those suffering from back pain don’t recall the exact time they experienced it. It suggests that a variety of other conditions can trigger back pain and injury than injuries due to disk degeneration, infections, and conditions that are passed down through the generations like ankylosing spondylitis.
True: More Pounds, More Pain
Fitness is a key factor in preventing back pain. It is much more frequent among those who are in poor physical condition or overweight. Individuals who exercise regularly (the weekend athletes) are at a higher risk of back injuries.
Myth: Skinny Means Pain-Free
Thin people are also at risk of back pain, specifically those who suffer from food disorders as well as osteoporosis…
Myth: Exercise Is Bad for Back Pain
Regular exercise is extremely beneficial to prevent back pain. For those who have an injury to their back that is acute, often a gentle, guided exercise routine is suggested. It is usually started by doing gentle exercises, which gradually increase the intensity.
True: Chiropractic Care May Help
Some patients have reported that manipulating their spine and massage could assist in relieving lower back pain, whereas others might experience very little or no relief.
True: Acupuncture May Ease Pain
Acupuncture can be useful in alleviating a variety of back pain that does not take other treatment options. The practice of yoga, relaxation progressive, or cognitive behavioral therapy could also prove beneficial.
Myth: A Firm Bed Mattress Is Better
Individuals have different responses to the mattress’s firmness. A study conducted in Spain found that people sleeping on a medium-firm mattress (rated 5.6 on a 10- point scale from hard to soft) were less prone to back pain and impairment as compared to those who slept on the firmer mattress (2.3 on the scale).
Myth: Slipped Disks Require Surgery
The root of back pain isn’t known over 70 percent of the time. Even if tests show that the disc is damaged there is a chance that you don’t need surgery. MRI studies indicate that when the disk herniates (bulges ruptures, bulges, or extends) the affected disk usually heals itself when time passes. Within six weeks the majority of the slipped disks be improving gradually. Many specialists suggest treatment without surgery as a starting step. If back pain doesn’t improve through more conservative treatments surgical intervention may be suggested.
Myth: X-Ray, MRI Can Always Find the Cause
The machines that look into your body — X-rays, MRI CT scans, etc. – don’t necessarily work to treat back discomfort. However, the truth is that spine abnormalities are just as prevalent in people who do not have back pain as they are for people who suffer from it. When muscles start to tense or ligaments are stretched the issue won’t be evident on any of these tests. This is why an extensive physical exam is usually more beneficial.
Myth: Back Pain Is Often Disabling and Chronic
Back pain can be very painful initially. However, most people recover in the span of just a few weeks. They generally improve significantly after a couple of months. Normally, back pain will recur at times. It is good to know that only a tiny percentage of patients suffering from back pain are affected because of their back pain. Many can go on with their favorite activities quite easily.
Myth: Major Pain = Major Injury
Not necessarily. The causes of pain are more complex than you think. Two people with similar back issues may experience distinct levels of discomfort. The brain’s ability and express pain is believed to have been “tuned up” more highly in certain people than others. The factors that you experience, both environmental and personal along with genetics all influence how you experience the sensation of pain. When you’re dealing with your back the pain is not always mean a serious injury.
Myth: Sitting All Day Causes Lower Back Pain
Are you a desk jockey? If you spend all day at your desk it is easy to be feeling it through your spine. But can sit for hours at work result in back discomfort? This is an encouraging sign for office workers all over the world that the answer appears to be “no.” After reviewing 24 studies that all investigated the link between desk work as well as lower back discomfort one study found no proof to suggest any link between them.
True: Your Beliefs Influence Your Improvement
Can you believe it? The way you think you see things can affect the back pain you experience. Find a compelling reason to differentiate the back pain myth from reality! Research shows that when patients believe they are suffering from an issue with their back and back, they are more likely to suffer chronic low back discomfort. This is also the case for those who are unable to rest as much as they should, as well as those who are unable to manage their back pain. These are all good reasons to consult a physician or physical therapist that has expertise in dealing with back discomfort. With the right knowledge and guidance, you could soon be on the path towards recovery from back discomfort.