Back pain is so prevalent that it’s treatment usually costs way more than cancer and diabetes combined. Wide-spread as it is, there are still numerous myths circulating about this condition. This information could shed some light on the common ailment of back pain issues, what causes them and how to treat and manage them better.
Scientific research in the area of back pain has progressed a lot nowadays and is seriously challenging many of the most widespread beliefs and myths about this condition.
1. Back pain is very common
80% of all people will experience at least one episode of back pain in their lifetime. What isn't that common, though, is not recovering from pain in the back.
Acute back pain is often the result of strains or sprains, so the prognosis is good in most cases.
Almost 85% of the patients are fully recovered within 3 months. A small number of patients develop chronic, long-term and disabling back pain problems and complications.
2. Scans are overrated
Evidence suggests that scans only show “something” in less than 5% of patients with back pain.
3. Bed rest is not really helpful with back pain
There is strong evidence that keeping active and returning to your usual activities (incl. work and hobbies) is important in aiding recovery.
Prolonged bed rest is unhelpful, according to medical specialists. It is associated with high levels of pain, greater disability, worse recovery and so on. The longer a person stays in bed because of back pain, the worse the pain becomes.
4. Surgery is rarely needed… really
Most people with back pain can manage the condition by staying active and identifying the factors which are involved in their source of pain. Only a small percent of patients, even those experiencing severe back pain, require surgery.
On average, the results for spinal surgery are no better in the medium and long-term than non-surgical interventions, like exercise.
5. Avoiding activities rarely helps long-term… if at all
During the first few days of a back pain episode the patients’ movement could be significantly limited or altered, similar to “limping” after spraining an ankle. Many people tend to begin moving differently due to fear of pain or belief that it will “come back”. Doctors say that altered movement can be unhealthy in the long term, and could increase the strain.
6. Exercise is good. Exercise is safe.
Many patients with back pain seem to be afraid of exercise. They will avoid it as they think it may cause complications and problems. This is generally not true, though.
Regular exercise helps keep the body fit and also reduces pain and discomfort for a proven fact. Exercise relaxes muscle tension, and also helps mood. Being active strengthens the immune system. It is a good idea to have a plan and start gradually. Other than that almost all exercise and physical activity is good for the back: walking, cycling, jogging, running, stretching or simply using the stairs are all good places to start.
Препоръчани клиники за такъв тип заболявания
