There has been lots of misinformation surrounding various medical conditions, including back problems and back pain. This issue has been exacerbated by the increase in access to the internet. Additionally, the cropping up of different social media platforms makes it even more daunting to manage what is being shared. This is not to say that one should ignore all messages you see on the internet; however, it is important to sift the information before taking it as the truth. If you begin to notice any back problems, then you should book an appointment with the team from the Republic Spine & Pain whose specialty is treating back pain in Austin.
If you have ever experienced any back pain, then I bet you know how much it can affect your work or even school life. This pain if not caused by a physical injury, often goes away on its own. However, there are times when the pain persists for close to three months or longer. If this happens, then you should visit a doctor.
The causes of back pain are not always black and white. This is probably why there are so many myths. Here are some of the most common myths and facts that everyone ought to know about back pain.
Myths
You should always sit straight
Bad posture has always been considered the main cause of back pain, and people are always advising that we all need to sit straight. Here’s the thing, sitting too straight for long periods can irritate your back. You should always change positions and lean on your back with your feet touching the floor.
You should never lift heavy objects
The pain caused by lifting heavy objects is due to how you lift these objects. You must always stand close to the object and use your legs and not your back to lift it. Think of it like doing squat exercises where your back should be straight.
All you need is bed rest for things to get back to normal
Traditionally, bed rest was the general medical advice for most injuries or acute back pain. However, staying immobile for a long period is likely to worsen your back pain symptoms.
An injury causes pain
There are many risk factors for developing back problems, including age, genetics, fitness level, weight, occupation, as well as underlying health conditions. Injury is just one of the many factors that make one susceptible to back pain.
Surgery is the best treatment option
There are a few spine conditions that will require surgery. However, most back problems only require medication and physical therapy. Your doctor will only recommend surgery if you fail to see results after trying all the other conservative treatment options.
Facts
Being overweight can cause back pain
Living a sedentary lifestyle increases the chances of experiencing back pain. Additionally, being overweight may also cause back pain because of the significant stress being exerted on your back.
Chiropractic care may relieve pain
Most people with acute pain will experience pain relief after receiving chiropractic manual therapy such as spinal manipulation and chiropractic mobilization.
Acupuncture may help ease back pain
Acupuncture entails the insertion of needles on certain parts of the body. Studies show that this treatment enables energy flow and also releases neurotransmitters which are stimulated hence relieving pain.
The bottom line is that back pain can result from several issues; therefore, it is always good to visit a licensed doctor for the best medical advice. If you live around Austin, then you should visit the pain specialists from Republic Spine & Pain for highly customized and compassionate care.
