Statistics tells us 80% of people will suffer with back pain at some point in their life. Data also suggests 90% of that 80% will have at least one recurrence. No one ever said back pain is fun. Each and every person wants it to go away…FAST. Why then do so many suffer and live with lingering pain?
Hare 4 reasons back pain remains (and what can be done to end back pain).
- The Rest/Do nothing plan. Often when folks experience back pain they believe the best option is to do nothing. Many think that if they just rest it will go away. The reality of the situation is that sitting or lying around is the worst thing. Even when a person is hurting the best course of action is to stay as active as possible. Now this does not mean act as if nothing is wrong…Rather keeping moving to some degree is the best plan to maintain joint mobility and prevent those tense tight muscles.
- The pain medication approach. Pain medication is only a band-aide; it does not solve the reason for the problem in the 1st place. True, it may help to feel better in the moment. However, if the actual reason for the problem is not addressed it will surely return. This is not to say do not take anything, just that more needs to be done.
- Internet Exercise approach. Quite often when someone hurts they will consult Dr. Google for help. The problem is that while what might be read may have some validity in it, the exercises described or suggested may not be the best for that person. Nothing keeps a back hurting longer than doing the “wrong” stretches or movements. In general movement is good, but at times the “wrong” movement can cause some issues
- Delayed treatment. This reason actually builds on the 3 reasons above. When people wait and see only to then start their journey with a PCP are more likely to suffer longer. This is because this individual will likely be given more meds and told to come back in a few weeks when not better. Only nothing happens…except a referral for imaging (which is not indicated in most cases of back pain), and then onto an orthopedic. The problem here is that very few cases are actually surgical so more time is lost when productive treatment could be happening. Eventually…after 3 months or more the individual finally arrives at the place they should have been a long time before. Data suggests that treatment for back pain before the 6-week mark is most effective. This is before pain has a chance to become chronic and the individual has begun to significantly adapt their daily life to live with pain.
There is no reason to live with back pain longer than necessary. It is known that active treatment is the best and fastest way to overcome back pain. Do not suffer one more day not knowing what is wrong and what to do about it.
If you are ready to be done living with back pain, CLICK the following LINK HERE to request a phone consultation to learn about your options.