Back pain is one of the most common health complaints, affecting people of all ages and lifestyles. In fact, it’s estimated that 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Despite its prevalence, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding back pain that can prevent people from seeking the right care and treatment.

At our pain clinic, we’ve seen firsthand how misinformation can impact treatment outcomes. In this blog post, we’ll debunk five of the most common myths about back pain and set the record straight, so you can take the right steps toward recovery and better back health.

Myth 1: Bed Rest is the Best Treatment for Back Pain

Fact: While it’s true that rest is important in the early stages of an injury, long periods of bed rest can actually make back pain worse. Staying immobile for too long can cause the muscles and joints in your back to stiffen, which may delay recovery and increase discomfort. Instead of prolonged bed rest, gentle movement and activities like walking or light stretching are often more effective for relieving pain and promoting healing. In fact, physical therapy and exercise are essential components of most back pain treatment plans, as they help strengthen the muscles supporting your spine and improve flexibility. Pain management is very important here has it allows one to maximally participate in physiotherapy in order to obtain the best outcomes.

Myth 2: Back Pain is Always Caused by an Injury or Accident

​Fact: While back pain can result from an injury, it’s not always the cause. Many cases of back pain develop gradually over time due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or muscle strain. Conditions like degenerative disc disease, arthritis, spinal stenosis, or herniated discs can also cause chronic back pain without any specific injury. Stress, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle are additional risk factors that can contribute to back pain. In some cases, back pain may even have no clear cause at all (called “nonspecific back pain”), but it’s still important to get a proper diagnosis to rule out more serious conditions.

Myth 3: Surgery is the Only Solution for Severe Back Pain

Fact: Surgery should always be considered a last resort for back pain, and in most cases, it’s not necessary. The majority of back pain can be managed successfully with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy and medications. In cases of herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other conditions, many people experience significant relief through non-invasive treatments like epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks. Only if conservative treatments fail, or if there is significant nerve damage or severe spinal deformity, would surgery be considered. It’s always best to explore less invasive options first with the guidance of your healthcare provider.

Myth 4: Poor Posture is the Only Cause of Back Pain

​Fact: While poor posture can certainly contribute to back pain, it’s far from the only cause. As we mentioned earlier, back pain can arise from a variety of factors, including muscle imbalances, overuse injuries, or underlying conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis. Moreover, posture alone is not always the sole culprit—how you move, lift, and engage in activities also play a role. For instance, lifting heavy objects improperly or sitting for long periods of time without getting up to stretch can both strain your back. The key is not only to maintain good posture but also to take regular breaks, use ergonomic furniture, and practice proper body mechanics to prevent injury.

Myth 5: Older Adults Are Doomed to Have Chronic Back Pain

​Fact: While it’s true that the risk of back pain increases with age due to natural changes in the spine (like disc degeneration or reduced bone density), it’s not inevitable that older adults will experience chronic pain. Many people in their 60s, 70s, and beyond live active, pain-free lives by staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular stretching and strengthening exercises. Managing risk factors such as osteoporosis, arthritis, and poor posture can also prevent the onset of chronic back pain. With the right treatment, guidance, and lifestyle choices, back pain can often be prevented or managed effectively, no matter your age.

Back pain is often misunderstood, and these myths can prevent people from getting the proper care they need. Whether you’re experiencing occasional discomfort or chronic pain, it’s important to seek professional help and explore all your treatment options.

At our pain clinic, we are specialists at identifying the cause of your back pain and we offer a wide range of treatment options for your condition. If you’re dealing with back pain, don’t let myths or misinformation stand in the way of finding the relief you deserve.

Have back pain or questions? Reach out to us today to schedule an evaluation and get started on a path toward better back health!

Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations regarding back pain or any other medical condition.​