Did you know that 70-90% of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives? With so many people experiencing back pain there's been a lot of attention on it. As such there are things that we used to believe were true but we now know aren't. Let's talk about some back pain myths.
It's best to rest when I have pain
For the first dew days after an injury it can be really helpful to avoid aggravating movements so it can be useful to rest. Prolonged rest isn't helpful and has been associated with slower recovery, higher levels of pain, more disability and more work absenteeism. That means that while doing some activities might be painful in the beginning it's better for recovery to return to them as early as possible after an injury.
2. Bending will make my back worse
Your back is designed to move and to be flexible. Your body, including your spine, is incredibly resilient and because of that you shouldn't be scared to move. Research has shown that full range of movement is good for you back and bending is no more risky that any other movement.
3. My back hurts because something is out of alignment
Discs, which are the shock absorbers of the back, are strong fibrous structures that are firmly attached between vertebrae. It's almost impossible for them to slip. They can bulge or herniate which can lead to pain. Also, while there are very small changes in spinal alignment, these are not closely associated with pain and your spine won't just go "out". Discs, like much of your amazing body, are great at healing and almost 70% of disc bulges heal within a few months.
4. I need a scan to see what's wrong
While scans are helpful to diagnose something more sinister (when signs and symptoms don't follow normal healing times), research has shown very little correlation between symptoms and scan findings. In fact sometimes disc bulges are found on people with no symptoms! And we know that there is effective treatment for your back pain without needing a scan.
So how about some truth...
Your spine is resilient and good at healing
Your body loves to move and heals while you move
Despite your shape (and alignment) you don't have to stop moving and you don't have to live with pain.
If you need help with pain or getting moving again, contact us by calling oe sending a whatsapp message to 061 497 9680 or book online
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