If you are experiencing back pain, you need to dispel some common misconceptions that surround your predicament right away. Banishing these myths is the first step towards restoring your health and the quickest path to recovery. Take note of these widely held but unfortunately inaccurate ideas.
Most Back Pain is Because 'Something is Out of Place'
The belief that there must be a joint, a protruding disk or a mal-alignment in the legs or pelvis is perhaps the most common misconception. Thus, it is thought that the treatment required would be a manipulation of some sort to put things back into the correct position. The reality is that most back pain is the result of sprains and strains to the muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the back. Manipulation may be used to provide relief and assist in joint movement, but it is not used to 'pop' something back into position.
Surgery is Often Needed to Cure Back Pain
In fact, surgery is only required in the minority of situations. Because of the risks involved with surgery and the low percentage of positive outcomes for patients, it is now used as a last resort strategy.
Bed Rest is the Best Cure for Back Pain
This is an outdated idea, and extended bed rest can actually hinder the recovery process. It is now recognised that an active approach is far better. Back pain sufferers are encouraged to keep active and return to work as soon as possible.
An X-ray or MRI Scan is Required to Diagnose the Cause of Back Pain
A physical examination will be all that is necessary in the majority of cases. This will reveal localised swelling, tenderness on touch and range of motion and the best method of treatment. A scan or X-ray as a diagnostic test is only necessary if other potential causes of the pain need to be identified.
Back Pain, Once Experienced, Will Be With You for Life
Fortunately, this is not so. Up-to-date knowledge, treatment plans and management of back pain has made great advances. Much more is known about the management of the condition and the best recovery plans. Fortunately, there is plenty of sound advice that you can take. Here are some of the ways you can get better, stay well and take good care of your back.
Stay Active
Even if the pain is related to sports injuries, try to return to your usual routine as soon as possible. Gentle exercise such as walking and swimming is very beneficial. Try to avoid any lifting and bending at first.
It's important that you continue your hobbies, interests and social activities. Don't be tempted to stay home, rest on the lounge and focus on your pain. Stress can be a factor in the development and aggravation of back pain.
Return to Work
Getting back into work helps you resume your routine and become involved with others. Perhaps you may need to ease into it by arranging to return half time or on reduced hours. If your work involves sitting at a desk, make sure you get up and take regular stretches.
Ease the Pain
You don't need to be a hero. There are many over the counter medications that can ease the discomfort. Talk with a health practitioner about the one that may work best for your circumstances.
A health professional or physiotherapist can develop an individual self-management program. This might cover such areas as appropriate exercise, posture techniques, correct lifting and office break activities. With a definite plan of action and some realistic goals in place, you will feel more in control and in charge of your back pain.
Share24 May 2017
I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes ten years ago. Since my diagnosis, I have been committed to learning how to modify my lifestyle and adopt healthy practices, such as daily exercise and eating wholefoods, that help control my diabetes and improve my quality of life. I started this blog to connect with others living with this condition and to share what I've learned on my personal journey to better health. I also update the blog with the latest research and news relating to type 2 diabetes. If you have a specific question that's not been addressed in a blog post, feel free to send me an email.
