Busted: eight myths about low back pain

Low back pain is one of the most common problems we can suffer from—and yet we know so little about what causes it and how best to treat it.

In fact, there are eight major myths about back pain that Meghan Murphy, a neurosurgeon at the Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, has busted.

Myth: Lifting heavy objects is the main cause of back pain

Fact: Lifting heavy objects with poor form can contribute to back pain, but the major culprits are a sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, obesity and genetic factors.

Myth: Bed rest will make back pain better.

Fact: Probably not, but it depends on the cause of your pain. If it’s muscle strain, taking it easy for a few days may help. However, bed rest can also make back pain last longer or even worsen. If your pain is from nerve compression, a disc issue or joint degeneration, inactivity can cause muscles to tighten, pain to worsen, loss of physical condition and more debility.

Myth: Back pain is caused by sitting on a fat wallet.

Fact: Sitting with a large wallet in your back pocket can cause leg or hip pain and numbness, but typically not back pain.

Myth: Back pain is always due to a serious underlying condition.

Fact: Back pain is usually caused by muscle strains or sprains, not by a serious condition like a disc or vertebrae issue. Most back pain resolves on its own.

Myth: Avoid exercise when experiencing back pain.

Fact: Exercise and physical activity are usually recommended for managing and preventing back pain. Strengthening the core muscles, including your back muscles, improving flexibility, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to a healthier back. Depending on your pain, you may need to modify your activity.

Myth: Surgery is the only solution for chronic back pain.

Fact: Back pain is often caused by issues that aren’t relieved with surgery. Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, injections and lifestyle modifications are often effective in managing and reducing chronic back pain.

Myth: A firm mattress is the best for alleviating back pain.

Fact: The ideal mattress firmness varies from person to person. Some people may find relief with a firm mattress, while others may prefer a medium or soft one.

Myth: Poor posture doesn’t contribute to back pain.

Fact: Many people spend hours slouching while staring at a computer or focusing on cell phones that draw the eyes down and curve the neck. These habits can strain muscles and joints, causing body pain over time.

Indeed, low back pain doesn’t have to be just ‘one of those things’.  There’s plenty you can do to ensure you’re not another victim, and here are the three main ones: Maintain an ideal body weight: excess weight causes increased stress on all joints, including the spine; Strengthen your core: stronger core muscles, including abdominal and intrinsic back muscles, can help take the stress off your spine, and Stay active: regular movement is essential for keeping your body active.

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