Back Pain Myths

According to statistics, 8 out of 10 people suffer from back pain. Because it is so common, a lot of myths have been attached to it.

Below are a few back pain myths facts behind them.

Myth: Sitting up straight prevents back pain

Fact: Though slouching is bad for your back, sting up too straight and too still for too long puts a strain on the back. If you sit a lot, try leaning back in your chair with your feet on the floor and a slight curve in your back; or even better, try standing for part of the day, for instance while talking on the phone. Doing this a few times a day can help prevent back pains.

Myth: Lifting heavy weights hurts your back

Fact: It is not necessarily how much you lift, but how you lift it. Of course you should not lift something that might be too heavy for you. Exercising proper form is the key. When you lift, squat next to the object you are trying to lift. Keep your back straight and your head up. Stand up. Use your legs to lift the weight. Avoid twisting or bending your body while you lift, as it could really hurt your back.

Myth: Back pain is always caused by injury.

Fact: A lot things can cause back pain apart from injury. Some of the causes of back pain include: disc degeneration, diseases, infections, and inherited medical conditions.

Myth: Overweight people suffer from back pain more.

Fact: This is actually true. Being in shape helps prevent back pain. Back pain is common among people who are not physically fit, like office folks who after sitting around all week, take on energetic physical activities on weekends.

Myth: Skinny people do not get back pain.

Fact: Back pain spares no one. People who are too thin, particularly those suffering from anorexia, may suffer bone loss which may lead to crushed or fracture vertebrae.

Myth: Exercise is bad for back pain.

Fact: Completely the opposite. Regular exercise prevents back pain. Also, doctors usually recommend an exercise program to people who suffered from an acute injury which resulted in lower back pain. The treatment program stars with gentle exercises which gradually increase in intensity. Once the acute pain is gone, following an exercise regiment may help prevent future recurrence of back pain.

Source: WebMD