Back Pain: The Most Common Myths To Debunk
Introduction
Back pain is one of the most common health problems worldwide, and with it comes a lot of misleading information. Some widespread beliefs rooted in popular thought can worsen low back pain, especially if followed blindly over time.
This article highlights the most common misconceptions and what experts recommend.
Myth 1: Bed Rest Is Best for Back Pain
One of the most common myths is that resting in bed and staying still will help heal back pain.
In reality, moving as soon as possible and maintaining an active lifestyle are crucial for recovery, unless the pain is severe and accompanied by worsening symptoms.
Fact: Prolonged bed rest can delay recovery, contribute to muscle stiffness, and weaken the back muscles, making the pain worse over time. Staying lightly active, even with simple movements, helps maintain flexibility, improves blood flow, and supports healing.
Myth 2: Strong Painkillers Speed Up Healing
Another common misconception is the belief that strong analgesics — including opioids — are necessary for faster recovery.
Experts advise against the routine use of powerful painkillers for back pain. Instead, simple analgesics prescribed by physicians should be used sparingly and always combined with other approaches such as physical exercise.
Overuse of opioids has been linked to a greater risk of dependency without any proven benefit for long-term recovery, according to the CDC opioid guidelines.
Pain relief should never be the only focus; restoring mobility and function is equally important.
Myth 3: Good Posture Means One Perfect Position
Posture is often blamed when it comes to back pain, but physiotherapists emphasize that there is no single “perfect” posture.
Rather, the key is to adopt a variety of comfortable postures throughout the day, depending on the activities you are performing.
Changing positions frequently and listening to your body’s signals can prevent stiffness and discomfort.
The Role of the World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines
Important updates have come from the World Health Organization (WHO), which published new guidelines for non-surgical interventions in chronic back pain management for adults and older individuals.
The WHO divides effective interventions into five categories:
- Education (learning and awareness about back pain)
- Physical therapies (exercise-based approaches)
- Psychological therapies
- Multi-component therapies (combinations of the above)
- Use of medications (with clear limitations)
Why Physiotherapists Are Essential
The role of the physiotherapist is fundamental, especially as a first-line approach to treating back pain.
They not only guide exercises and movement strategies but also educate patients on self-management and preventing future flare-ups.
Conclusion
Misinformation about back pain can lead people to take steps that actually worsen their condition. It is essential to move, avoid over-reliance on strong painkillers, and recognize that posture needs to be flexible, not fixed.
Following evidence-based advice and working with qualified professionals like physiotherapists can help ensure a faster, safer recovery — and prevent chronic disability in the future.
