Back pain is one of the most common causes of disability in the world. It can happen to anyone, and it often begins gradually, with stiffness or aching in the back. This can happen for a number of reasons, but it is most often due to a problem with the spine that puts pressure on the nerves.
In this article, let’s clear the air about what you may have heard. Sticking with facts will definitely help you especially if you have back pain.
Read on to find out more about back pain myths and facts!
1. Myth 1 – always sit up straight
Slouching is a bad habit. However, sitting up straight and still for long periods of time can put strain on your back. Take a few breaks throughout the day: lean back in your chair, feet on the floor, and let your back curve slightly. Better yet, try standing for a portion of the day, perhaps while talking on the phone or reading.
2. Myth 2 – Don’t do weights
It’s not so much how much you lift as it is how you do it. Place yourself directly in front of the object. Squat near it, keeping your back straight and your head up. Stand with your legs pushing up the load and your arms holding it close to your midsection.
If you twist or bend your body, you might risk injuring your back. Needless to say, of course, you should avoid picking up anything that is too heavy for you.
3. Myth 3 – Do not exercise
Back pain may be avoided by exercising regularly. Exercise may also be recommended by doctors for people who have recently injured their lower back.
They will typically begin with gentle movements and gradually increase the intensity. Once the acute pain subsides, an exercise program may help prevent it from returning.
4. Fact 1 – Chiropractic care may work for you
Some people think that chiropractors are only for back pain. This is not the case. They are for various health problems involving the musculoskeletal system.
According to Therapy Works: Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. It is a hands-on therapy that uses spinal adjustments to improve this relationship.
The term “chiropractic” comes from Greek words meaning “done by hand.” Chiropractors use their hands to diagnose and treat patients. They are trained in manual therapy, anatomy, physiology, neurology, biomechanics, and pathology to help patients with back pain, neck pain, joint dysfunction (arthritis), headaches and other neuromusculoskeletal problems.
There are many other benefits of visiting a chiropractor such as: getting relief from lower back pain, improving posture, lessening chronic headaches, and reducing muscle spasms in the musculoskeletal system.
5. Fact 2 – Acupuncture may address your symptoms
According to the National Library of Medicine, acupuncture is an Eastern practice of inserting thin needles into the skin at different points on the body. The Chinese believe that the positive energy that flows through these meridians help to regulate your body’s natural self-healing functions.
Acupuncture is widely gaining popularity in Western countries, partially because people are more open to new forms of medicine and treatments, and partially because people are gravitating towards “natural” forms of healing.
To end…
A lot of people experience back pain. Hopefully, this article helped clarify which are myths and which are facts. If you have any questions, you might want to contact your family doctor or GP.
For musculoskeletal issues or back pain in particular, you may choose to get in touch with a chiropractor.
