Common Myths About Back Pain (and the Truth!)
If you’ve ever dealt with back pain, you’ve probably heard a lot of conflicting advice. While some recommendations can be helpful, there are also many misconceptions that might be holding you back from real relief.
In my previous blog, I shared key insights I learned while working alongside one of Montreal’s top neurosurgeons. One of the biggest takeaways? Understanding back pain is the first step to overcoming it. In this post, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about back pain and uncover the truths that can help you recover more effectively.
Myth #1: Bed Rest is the Best Cure
🚫 False! Prolonged bed rest often does more harm than good.
✅ Truth: While short-term rest can help in the initial stages of acute pain, excessive inactivity leads to muscle stiffness and weakness, making pain worse over time. Gentle movement—such as walking, mobility exercises, or light stretching—can help stimulate blood flow, reduce stiffness, and promote healing.
Myth #2: All Back Pain Requires Surgery
🚫 False! Surgery is a last resort, not a first-line treatment.
✅ Truth: The vast majority of back pain cases do not require surgery. Many people find significant relief through rehabilitation, strength training, and mobility work. Even in cases of disc issues or nerve compression, non-surgical interventions can be highly effective.
Myth #3: You Should Avoid Movement When You Have Back Pain
🚫 False! Resting too much can lead to more stiffness and weakness.
✅ Truth: While certain high-impact movements should be avoided during flare-ups, completely stopping movement can actually prolong recovery. The key is to move intelligently—engage in low-impact activities and work with a professional to find safe movement patterns.
Myth #4: If You Have Back Pain, It’s Always a Spine Problem
🚫 False! The source of your pain may be elsewhere.
✅ Truth: Back pain often stems from dysfunctions in other areas of the body—such as the hips, feet, or core. If you have tight hips, weak core muscles, or poor foot mechanics, your spine has to compensate, leading to pain. A full-body movement assessment can help determine the true cause of your discomfort.
Myth #5: Back Pain is Inevitable and You Just Have to Live With It
🚫 False! You don’t have to suffer forever.
✅ Truth: Many people endure chronic back pain for years simply because they haven’t found the right treatment plan. When you address the root cause, strengthen key muscles, and improve movement patterns, lasting relief is possible. Back pain is not an unavoidable part of aging—you can take steps to reduce or even eliminate it.
Myth #6: Stretching Alone Will Fix Back Pain
🚫 False! Stretching is only part of the solution.
✅ Truth: While stretching can provide temporary relief, it’s not enough on its own. Strengthening the right muscles is essential for long-term back health. A well-rounded approach that includes mobility, strength training, and movement reprogramming is the most effective strategy.
Tips for Managing Back Pain and Recovery
✔ Be Patient: Recovery isn’t always linear. Some days will be better than others, but consistency is key.
✔ Listen to Your Body: Don’t push through sharp or worsening pain—adjust your approach if necessary.
✔ Stay Active: Movement is medicine. Find ways to keep moving within your comfort level.
✔ Prioritize Strength and Mobility: A combination of strength training and flexibility work is ideal for long-term back health.
✔ Seek Professional Help Early: If you experience persistent pain, numbness, or mobility issues, don’t wait—consult a back pain specialist to prevent worsening symptoms.
Final Thoughts: You CAN Overcome Back Pain
Back pain is a complex and personal experience, but the good news is that recovery is possible with the right approach. Whether it’s identifying the root cause, improving movement patterns, or focusing on strength and mobility, there are many ways to take control of your pain and regain your quality of life.
Take the Next Step Toward a Pain-Free Life
If you’re struggling with chronic or acute back pain, don’t wait until it worsens. With the right approach, lasting relief is possible.
✅ Looking for a personalized movement therapy plan? Let’s create a solution tailored to your body and lifestyle.
📅 Book a consultation today and take the first step toward better movement and long-term relief.