People will believe almost anything. Whether they read it on the Internet, or they heard it from a friend, or they heard it from a friend of a friend, we are constantly trusting untrustworthy sources. This goes for spine health as well. There are a slue of myths circling around that, frankly, need to be corrected. The North American Spine Society (NASS) heard this problem and came up with a survey to reveal the most talked about falsities from their patients about back and spine pain. Southwest Spine and Pain Center wants to ensure that their patients are receiving the best advise and recommended treatment plan for their pain or injury.
- Exercising causes more back pain: The exact opposite is true, actually. Physicians will typically recommend their patients to stay active under regular, moderate exercises. Stretching, walking, swimming, and yoga are good options for workouts choices. By not exercising, you are increasing the likelihood that your pain will remain or increase, and the muscles will become weak.
- Surgery is the only option for recovery: While spine surgery is an option for some, most patients will seek conservative treatment plans that will effectively treat their injury or problem. Spine surgery is usually only an option for patients who have tried other therapies, or who have a severe case of back problems. Some patients who have underwent surgery report only partial relief. It is important to continue treatment even after surgery or other therapies.
- “I will have spine surgeries for the rest of my life after my first surgery”: Most patients who have spine surgery do not have multiple. If a patient is still have pain after the surgery, a physician will recommend conservative treatments such as pain medication, physical therapy, and exercise before considering another surgery.
- There are too many risks with spine surgery, especially paralysis: There is a risk of complications for any surgery. However, paralysis is one of the least likely complications to occur and it is still one of the most feared. The surgical instruments that assist surgeons during surgery have been updated and are more sophisticated to target the operated area and perform for the best outcome. Surgeons are equipped with imaging devices, monitoring equipment, and tools for minimally invasive surgery for the safest environment for the patient.
- Bed rest is the best cure: Actually, staying in bed and not exercising can make your back pain worse. Your muscles will become weak and stiff. There are emotional effects associated from lack of exercise and loneliness that can cause depression and fear of moving.
- A specialist will almost always demand surgery: Firstly, not all spine specialists are surgeons. Secondly, a physician will not force a patient to undergo any surgery or treatment if they do not feel comfortable. Surgery is only recommended in a small percentage of cases.
- If I have back pain, I must need surgery: About 80% of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. About 90% of those people will alleviate their pain with conservative treatments like medication, exercise, and physical therapy.
- Back pain is normal as we get older: It is true that we become more vulnerable to pain, especially in the back, as we get older. However, it should not be a part of our normal day, nor should we expect it to be so. Nonsurgical and surgical options are available for people who suffer from chronic back pain.
If you are apprehensive about back pain treatment options, schedule an appointment at any of our Southwest Spine and Pain Clinics to get the right information. Allow us to make you feel more comfortable and get rid of back pain fast!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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