| Myth: |
There
is a standard "cure" for most
causes of back and neck pain |
| Fact: |
Compared
to other medical conditions, there are
relatively few standardized approaches
to diagnosis and treatment of back
problems. Spine specialists from various
areas of expertise (such as physical medicine
and rehabilitation, chiropractic, osteopathic
medicine, physical therapy and surgery)
will often disagree on the diagnosis and
most appropriate treatment plan for back
pain and back problems, and specialists within a discipline
will also frequently have different opinions.
A few diagnoses for back pain as a result of back a back problem are relatively
straightforward (such as a spinal tumor,
infection, or fracture) and there is generally
more consensus for diagnosis and treatment
of these back problems. |
| |
|
| Myth: |
Rest
is the key to recovery from back pain and back problems |
| Fact: |
The
two main reasons bed rest may be recommended
for back pain are to reduce pressure on the
discs in the spine and to stop the mechanical
stresses that are irritating pain receptors.
A short period of bed rest may help reduce
acute back pain. However, in most instances,
more than 1 or 2 days of rest can be detrimental
to recovery from back pain, potentially leading
to increased pain and other adverse results,
such as: |
|
— |
muscle atrophy
(1% to 1.5% per day) |
|
— |
cardiopulmonary
deconditioning (15% loss in 10 days) |
|
— |
bone mineral
loss |
|
— |
risk of blood
clots |
|
— |
loss of wages |
|
— |
creating an "illness" mindset |
| |
|
| Myth: |
Heat
and massage
feel good so they must be helping back
pain and back problems |
| Fact: |
These
therapies can reduce acute back pain in the
short-term, but do not provide a long-term
solution to back problems. They are used to manage pain during
recovery, allowing patients to complete a
rehabilitation program and participate in
daily activities. |
| |
|
| Myth: |
Long-term
pain indicates I need back surgery for my back problems |
| Fact: |
If
back pain has reached the chronic stage,
spine surgery actually has a reduced likelihood
of being successful. Typically, symptoms
that suggest back surgery might be helpful
occur early in the course of pain and are
relatively apparent. |
