The (Mis)Management of Low Back Pain (LBP) is creating a horrible burden on the healthcare system. While everyone’s case of Low Back Pain  is unique, statistics say imaging of the spine will show problems if one is looking for them. This, however, does not mean you will be symptomatic (have pain).

Starting at age 35, 40% of the population will show signs of NORMAL age related changes. This term is more commonly known as degenerative disc disease.  See the difference in how those words can be perceived? Fifty percent of individuals over age 60 show evidence of a bulging disc and are symptom free.  Another 20% of individuals in the same age group have herniated discs but no issues as well. Research indicates imaging for patients without indicators leads to more frequent MD visits, over medication, injections and surgery with no guarantee of success.  Along with all those factors is dealing with the psychological effects because they were told they have some “pathologic” issue. The bottom line is, imaging IS NOT necessary unless certain key findings are noted in your history or physical exam.

Possible reasons for needing advanced imaging include: loss of muscle control of the leg or foot, progressive worsening of numbness/tingling or a change or loss of bowel or bladder function. These are REAL reasons for immediate and advanced medical care. Short of these issues, a good course of physical therapy (at least 6 weeks) is advised. In many cases back pain will resolve in this time frame when treated appropriately.

A recent 10-year study published in the Journal of American Medical Association Internal Medicine reports the American health care system is failing in treating LBP. There is too much wasted money on non-beneficial and non-proven treatments. Why is this? Because patients are not getting appropriate conservative care early enough. Early treatment helps to treat the active issue and teach prevention against future relapses. Statistics say less than 10% of patients with LBP are recommended Physical Therapy.

Physical therapists can monitor for changes in your condition and move you to the next level when appropriate. Interestingly, tracking patients with back pain out to 2-3 years shows no real difference when comparing surgery to PT. Why then are patients eager for surgery? Because many people are not willing to put in the work and are willing to wait that long for relief.

Bottom line, you should seek care sooner. Patients with LBP tend to respond better when treated before symptoms become chronic. Optimally care should be started  before 3 months (less than one month even better). Natural history says you will recover in about 4-6 weeks, but what if you do not get better?

For those struggling with back pain and are not sure where to turn, help is available. Everywhere you look, someone is offering a solution to your problem. But are they really listening. Want real tips for helping your back pain? Then click here for access to my FREE e-Book on learning to manage LBP without more doctors visits, medication, injections or surgery.