The vast majority of us are likely to experience issues related to back pain at some point in our lives. In fact, it is the single leading cause of disability around the world. Somewhere between 80 and 90 percent of adults suffer from at least mild forms of back pain in their lifetimes. If not treated properly, back pain has the potential to prevent us from engaging in simple daily activities we otherwise take for granted.
Back pain is one of the most common medical problems that people experience in their daily lives. In most cases, it lasts from 3 days to 1 week. The effectiveness of pain varies from mild to severe. When back pain lasts longer than 12 weeks, it is considered to be chronic. While you are in OKC, you can easily contact a back specialist to assist you in finding relief from back pain.
It is not a surprise that many misconceptions have already developed regarding the causes, impacts, and treatments associated with back pain. There are so many people who are living their lives under certain misconceptions when it comes to back pain. And these misconceptions are ruining their mind and ultimately keeping them away from getting proper care.
Here at Longevity, we know that understanding the nature of your pain is the first step to overcoming it. It is important to stay clear of the many myths and misconceptions surrounding this largely mysterious ailment.
Dr. Darryl D. Robinson, our founder and lead physician, has helped patients in the Oklahoma City area overcome chronic back pain and related syndromes for nearly two decades. Years of service have granted us a unique level of expertise regarding chronic pain management, so we have highlighted four of the most common back pain myths patients often run into.
Myth 1: Chronic Back Pain Is Always Genetic
Although some studies suggest certain conditions relating to chronic back pain can be hereditary, there is not always a direct correlation between genetics and back/neck pain. Even if one or more of your parents experience chronic back pain, this does not necessarily mean you are guaranteed to go through the same turmoil.
Other common causes of chronic back pain include:
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Poor physical fitness
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Inadequate diet
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Improper healing from an injury, such as a ligament strain or tear
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Ordinary degeneration from aging
Myth 2: Only the Overweight Experience Chronic Back Pain
Packing on extra pounds is a surefire way to put unnecessary strain on the back, but individuals of all shapes in sizes may be at risk of developing chronic back pain. In fact, being too thin is another significant risk factor.
Underweight individuals, such as those struggling with an eating disorder, often experience some level of bone loss. This decrease in bone mass makes the skeletal system more vulnerable to breaks, fractures, and minor stressors. The vertebrae might even be crushed due to a mixture of external pressure and general frailty.
Myth 3: Proper Posture is a Surefire Solution
We heard it from our parents, and we often find ourselves parroting the same wisdom to our children: sitting up straight is always healthier than slouching. You might be surprised to learn that this line of advice could simply be another one of Grandma’s old wives’ tales.
Although excessive slouching is definitely bad for your overall health, sitting up straight or still for too long can actually put stress on the spine. Experts recommend giving your back a few breaks throughout the day by allowing your back to curve slightly while keeping both feet firmly on the floor. Better yet, stand up periodically to decompress.
Myth 4: Rest is Always the Best Medicine
Rest is commonly prescribed to those suffering from back pain in an attempt to take some pressure off the spinal discs and reduce any stresses affecting the pain receptors. However, although acute pain from an injury might require some downtime, a day or two of bed rest can actually make matters worse for those with chronic conditions.
Experts have found that prolonged rest may trigger the following adverse effects:
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Muscle atrophy
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Weakening of the lungs and heart
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Bone mineral loss
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Risk of blood clots
As it turns out, getting active through a mindful and diligent exercise regimen is one of the best ways to combat symptoms related to back pain. Increased physical fitness has the potential to make your body more resilient to injury as well as everyday wear and tear.
Many people think that bed rest is the proper treatment for back pain. But the truth is – it is not. It’s a misconception. Bed rest can actually worsen your condition. Normal stretching, light exercise, and even swimming are recommended for back pain, but generally not bed rest.
Bonus Myths
Exercise worsens the conditions
Exercise doesn’t worsen your pain; it actually decreases it/ Exercise strengthens your muscles and makes you fit. Exercise strengthens your abdominal and back muscles that play a vital role in protecting your spine. Daily light exercise can give certain relief from back pain.
Injury is the only cause of back pain
Injury doesn’t always become a singular cause for back pain. There are other causes too. It’s true that injury causes back pain, but there are many other causes too. For example, infection in the spine, herniated discs, arthritis, and sciatica can cause back pain, which is not an injury at all.
Severe back pain is always a serious medical issue
No, severe back pain doesn’t always refer to a serious medical issue. Back pain can extend from mild to moderate to severe. In many cases, severe back pain involves some trivial causes like sudden falls or twisting of the ligaments. Degenerative discs can cause you severe back pain, too. Therefore, it’s a misconception that severe back pain is always a serious medical issue. If you are in OKC, you can get rid of your severe back pain by contacting a back specialist.
Spine specialists always recommend surgery
Almost 95% of the patients with back pain are treated in a non-surgical way. Unless you have certain specific conditions, surgery is not recommended. Your spine specialist will recommend surgery when all other treatments have been unsuccessful.
The Longevity Difference: OKC Experts In Chronic Pain Management
Oklahoma Spine & Pain Management team of back and spine specialists pride themselves in taking a holistic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of spine and back pain. Our specialty is using innovative and integrative non-surgical treatments designed with the individual in mind.
Dr. Robinson is regarded as one of the top physicians in the region, and our staff members are among the finest medical professionals in the OKC metro area. Learn more about the Longevity team here.
ARE YOU READY TO OVERCOME CHRONIC BACK PAIN? CALL 405-703-4950 TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR EVALUATION.
