5 Back Pain Myths, Squashed!

Off the top of my head, I can’t think of a more common symptom than back pain. Everyone gets it and believe it or not, it can be fairly easy to manage. But, with any medical complaint, back pain is not to be taken lightly as it could be a sign of a serious condition.

It’s true, we (myself included) all too often fall victim to cyberchondria (the act of self-diagnosing after carrying out extensive internet research on everything that could cause specific "symptoms") and start rationalizing that an internet home-remedy is a suitable replacement to a visit to the doctor. Think long and hard about how your coconut-oil-apple-cider-vinegar-cayenne-pepper home made salve measures up to a professional evaluation.

Scheduling an appointment with a doctor may not be exactly convenient when the pain isn’t that bad, but as the old adage goes: It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Below, I've collected some of the most commonly misunderstood “back pain remedies” in an effort to shed light on the myths about back pain in hopes that a little information will help you make an informed decision about your medical care.

Myth 1. An ergonomic fitness ball makes for a better seat than an office chair.

Truth: Take a quick look around your office. If we’re being honest, it probably doesn’t take long to arrive at the realization that in fact, this type of seat makes a very brief appearance among coworkers before facing total extinction. Whatever your reason is for swapping the traditional for the ackward, we can assure you that unless you plan on actively and consciously engaging your core muscles while making deadline for a report due precisely at five pm that same day, you can probably count on it not being very effective. But, if were being fair to those who insist on using these things, alternate it with a traditional office chair during the course of the work day and especially, at the first sign of back discomfort.

Myth 2. A massage a day keeps back pain at bay.

Truth: Most of us love a good massage but in some instances of back pain, you’re probably not going to get much relief. Depending on the cause of back pain, a massage can do more harm than good as back tightness may be the body’s way of protecting itself. The work of a massage therapist quite possibly could cause even more instability and pain. Back pain that involves stiffness of the muscles and joints however, may benefit from light massage. It’s critical to be very thoughtful in evaluating your degree of pain to determine the most appropriate plan of action. When in doubt, see a doctor.

Myth 3. Relief comes from a good stretch.

Truth: It should go with saying that like massages, any type of stretching could cause more damage and pain if you’re unsure of the cause. In conditions with spinal nerve involvement (i.e. intervertebral disc injuries), stretching the quads and hamstrings (an action that otherwise could provide some relief) can also stretch the inflamed nerves, leading to increased pain and discomfort. Avoid stretching until a. You receive clearance from your physician and b. When symptoms subside.

Myth 4. Take a hot bath to soothe back inflammation.

Truth: On the subject of whether to use heat or ice for back inflammation, have you ever wondered which one is better for your particular injury?

As a rule of thumb – Ice eases inflammation, while heat relieves stiffness after inflammation resolves. 

So, to get back on topic, taking a hot bath while back muscles are still inflamed can up the inflammatory response in acute injuries (that’s not a good thing). It is better to apply ice (avoid direct contact with the skin) to an injury for 15-20 minutes on, 15-20 minutes off during the first 48-72 hours directly following an injury.

Myth 5. Back pain eventually requires surgical intervention.

Truth: In reality, most of us avoid seeing a doctor in fear of him or her mentioning the dreaded s-word. Well, we’ve got good news for you: Chances are, you’re probably worrying unnecessarily.

Most cases of back pain can be treated with non-surgical or conservative measures such as injections, NSAIDs, physical therapy among others. However, there are no hard and fast set of rules that apply across all types of back pain and associated conditions. Remain cognizant of the fact that some conditions (if serious or pose significant danger to your well being) absolutely require surgery. 

Moral of the story: Don't delay seeking treatment. Chances are there is an easy fix.

Source: Medical Information Pro