Back Pain: Facts vs. Fiction

Low back pain can be debilitating, affecting many aspects of daily life. However, amidst the pain, numerous myths and misconceptions about its causes and treatments persist. Let's debunk some of these myths and shed light on the reality:

Myth: I Won’t Get Back Pain

Reality: Back pain can affect anyone, regardless of age or prior experience. Prevention through proper posture and movement techniques is key to reducing the risk.

Did You Know? 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives.

Myth: I’m Physically Active, So I Shouldn't Get Back Pain

Reality: While physical activity can reduce the risk, even active individuals can experience back pain, especially in sports that strain the back.

Myth: Being Overweight Doesn’t Contribute to My Back Pain

Reality: Excess weight can strain the spine and lead to back problems. Strengthening core muscles through exercise is crucial for back health.

Myth: Slim People Don't Have Bad Backs

Reality: Weight isn't the sole factor in back pain; other issues like structural support can contribute to discomfort.

Myth: Back Problems Get Worse With Age

Reality: Back pain incidence peaks between 35 and 55 years; aging doesn't necessarily worsen it.

Myth: Don't Lift Heavy Things

Reality: Proper lifting techniques are crucial; lifting with the legs and avoiding twisting can prevent injury.

Myth: Exercise Is Bad for Back Pain

Reality: Regular exercise prevents and alleviates back pain; doctors often recommend tailored exercise plans for recovery.

Myth: Rest Is the Best Way to Help My Pain

Reality: Prolonged rest can exacerbate pain; moderate activity promotes healing and prevents muscle weakening.

Myth: It's Better to Sleep on a Hard Mattress

Reality: Mattress preference varies; a medium-firm mattress may alleviate back pain better than a very hard one.

Myth: An MRI Scan Is Necessary to Diagnose My Back Problem

Fact: A thorough medical history and physical examination suffice for many diagnoses; MRI scans are reserved for specific cases.

Myth: Most Back Pain Requires Surgery

Fact: Surgery is rarely the first-line treatment for back pain; many cases resolve with conservative treatments.

Myth: Pain, It’s All in My Head

Reality: Pain is real and should be addressed seriously; dismissing it can worsen the condition.

Myth: I’ll Just Have to Live with Back Pain

Reality: Accepting pain as inevitable can hinder treatment; numerous options exist for relief and management.

Additionally, misconceptions about pain procedures persist. Blocks and injections for low back pain, when administered appropriately, have high success rates with minimal side effects. A multimodal approach, including drug therapy, physiotherapy, and interventional pain management, is often necessary for effective treatment.

BY Dr. Syed Arif Hussain

Dr Syed Arif Hussain is a Consulting Anesthesist & Pain Specialist Govt JLNM Hospital, Rainawari and Fellowship in pain management from Kolkata