7 Common Myths Surrounding Back Pain

One of the most common issues we treat in our HealthMax Physiotherapy Clinics is back pain. Back pain is actually the number one disability of people in Canada aged 45 and under. Most of our patients enter our clinics not knowing how this back pain started therefore today, we’ll be focusing on myths associated with back injuries. Our goal is to educate and empower patients when it comes to physical therapy making sure you get the treatment you deserve. Here are 7 common myths surrounding one of the most common disabilities in the world.

Lifting Heavy Objects Will Cause Back Pain 

We often treat those who have hurt their back as a result of lifting furniture in their homes or moving heavy items at work. While you should not be lifting heavy things that cause discomfort, these heavy items do not cause back pain. It’s not what you lift, it’s how you lift. Many people believe that bending your knees is the only technique to lifting heavy objects. The truth is, when lifting a heavy object you should be distributing the weight evenly across the body, which includes lifting with your hips, back, and knees. If you do not apply the proper technique when lifting a heavy item then you may hurt your back. However, the heavy object is never the source of back pain, it’s the technique.

All Back Pain is Caused by an Injury or Single Event

Many people believe that all source of back pain is caused by a single event such as a sports injury or slipping on ice but this is not the case. Back pain could be caused by more than just a single event. For example, diseases, infections, and disc degeneration may all be the source of back pain, not just one unfortunate event.

Resting in Bed is the Best Remedy for Back Pain

Those who suffer from back pain often believe that laying in bed is the cure to back pain however, this could make the back pain worse. Bed rest may cause the muscles to tighten up and create an inflammatory response, making the pain worse. The best option is to seek advice from a healthcare professional who will assess your back and give you the best treatment option in order to restore the function.

Exercise is Bad for Back Pain

Patients often have the idea that exercise may make back pain worse when the opposite may be true. If you have suffered a back injury, exercise may increase circulation, decrease inflammation and speed up the recovery process. At our clinics, we provide tailored-treatment plans which will gradually rehabilitate the back while decreasing back pain.

Firmer Mattresses Will Cure Back Pain

For several decades people have always inherited the idea that a firmer mattress would alleviate or cure back pain. Studies are currently being conducted however firmer mattresses are only great for specific sleeping habits. Scientists believe that you should choose a mattress based on your sleeping habits and sometimes a less-firm mattress may be better than the firmest mattress available. Sleeping habits should always be considering when buying a mattress.

Hot Showers and Baths Will Reduce Back Pain

While a warm bath may feel comforting, if you suffer from back pain then a warm bath may be intensifying the pain. Heat may increase an inflammatory response, causing more pain. If you are suffering from back pain and seeking immediate relief, applying ice to the area is more effective than heat.

Surgery is the Only Treatment For Back Pain

The majority of people who suffer from back pain could alleviate the pain with physical therapy. Surgery is an option for severe cases of back injuries however most patients who suffer from back pain may find relief from other treatment options. Spinal decompression therapy is a great treatment option for those who suffer from back pain. To find out more about spinal decompression therapy, please watch this demonstration.  

If you are suffering from back pain and would like to be treated immediately, we have experienced staff who will help alleviate this back pain. If you’d like to rehabilitate a recent injury to your back or would like to find out more about back health, please visit a HealthMax Physiotherapy Clinic near you or call (416) 431-4000. Remember, consultations are free!