Back pain is one of the most common issues people face, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. After treating patients for more than 20 years, I’ve heard all kinds of misconceptions about back pain—from patients diagnosing themselves with “slipped discs” to believing they need to avoid bending at all costs. While the internet is packed with information, not all of it is accurate. In fact, some of the advice you may come across can actually make your back pain worse!
In this blog, I’m going to debunk three of the most common myths about back pain, and explain why they’re not as helpful as you might think.
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Table of Contents
Myth 1: “Bending Is Bad for Your Back”
A lot of people believe that bending over is terrible for your back and should be avoided at all costs. It’s true that sudden, extreme movements or poor form can lead to injury, but the idea that all bending is bad for you is simply not true. In fact, your body is designed to move—and movement is actually good for it!
Avoiding bending entirely can lead to stiffness and limit your flexibility over time. When you stop moving, you’re more likely to develop muscle imbalances, tightness, and even more pain.
Myth 2: “I Have a Slipped Disc”
We’ve all heard the phrase “slipped disc,” but here’s the thing—discs don’t actually slip! The discs in your spine are securely attached to your vertebrae by ligaments, so they can’t slip out of place. What people are usually referring to is a bulging or herniated disc, which occurs when the soft material inside the disc pushes out due to wear and tear or injury.
Thinking your disc has “slipped” can create unnecessary fear. It can make you believe your back is permanently damaged, and lead to avoidance of movement, which can worsen your condition.
Myth 3: “Back Pain is Only About Your Back”
It’s easy to think that back pain is caused solely by something going wrong in your spine, but that’s rarely the whole story. In reality, your back is affected by multiple factors—your overall lifestyle, stress levels, posture, and even your diet can play a role.
Focusing only on your back means you may miss out on other contributing factors that could be causing or worsening your pain. Things like poor posture, lack of exercise, or unmanaged stress can all add up, creating tension in your muscles and joints, which eventually leads to back pain.
Ready To Get Help With Physical Therapy?
If you’ve been struggling with back pain and find that the tips and tricks you’ve been following aren’t working, it may be time to take a different approach. The truth is, back pain is complex, and treating it requires more than just avoiding bending or worrying about a “slipped disc.” It’s about keeping your body moving, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and understanding the real causes behind your pain.
At Intecore Physical Therapy, we’re dedicated to helping you live pain-free. If you need some help, call us at 360-499-0604 or click here to book your appointment.
If you’re not quite ready to speak on the phone, but want some more tips, click here to download our Free Back Pain Tips Guide.
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