back pain myths

Back pain myths!

Many of us have or will experience back pain at some point in our lives.  In fact back pain is the most common issue that we treat here at Heale’s Chiropractic Clinics!

Usually lasting anything from a few days to a few weeks, most back problems are considered short-term or acute.

Back pain is considered chronic when it lasts for 12 weeks or longer.  Approximately 20% of people with acute back pain develop a chronic condition.  Seeking Chiropractic care can help greatly with relief from symptoms and improvement in daily activities.

Whether acute or chronic, back pain is a significant concern for most people, causing days missed from work, discomfort and a loss of well-being.  It is essential to get a proper diagnosis and the right treatment to help with the relief of symptoms and the improvement in your quality of life!

Unfortunately, back pain myths are also very common, and these can stop you from receiving the proper care or from preventing back pain in the first place!

Let’s take a look at five of the most common back pain myths:

  1. Exercise can cause back pain.

In fact, regular exercise actually prevents back pain!  If you are not physically active, you are more likely to experience back pain as exercise helps to strengthen the stomach and back muscles, which in turn support the spine.  Exercise is shown to be extremely helpful for tackling spinal pain and is also the most effective way to prevent future episodes.

Daily, moderate levels of exercise, such as walking or low impact activities are recommended.  No one type of exercise is proven to be more effective that others, so choose one that you enjoy and that fits in with you lifestyle,

Back injuries happen more often for “weekend warriors”, those that have been inactive all week and binge exercise on the weekend!

  1. Bed rest is the best cure.

Yes, resting can help a recent injury or strain, but a day or two in bed can actually make it worse and slow down the recovery process!

Depending on the severity of the injury, light exercise is recommended such as walking, swimming or stretching to help accelerate healing.  Try staying in work where possible.

  1. Back pain is an unavoidable side-effect of getting older.

Getting older doesn’t mean life has to be painful!  Whilst there are aches and pains that come with an aging body, staying physically fit will keep your body strong and flexible.  The bottom line is that back pain is not something you should have to live with!

  1. The firmer the mattress- the better!

If your mattress is too firm you could actually experience greater pain!  This is because it puts more pressure on heavy points such as hips and shoulders.

Contrarily, a mattress that is too soft can also worsen your pain as it lacks the support necessary for your spine.

Studies show that a medium to firm mattress offers an ideal amount of support to help prevent further injury.  However, one-size does not fit all!  Choose your mattress based on your sleep habits as well as the cause of your back pain.

  1. A hot bath will do me the world of good!

There are few things that can compare to relaxing and sinking into a hot bath, but doing so after injuring your back could actually make your back pain worse by increasing the inflammation.  In fact applying ice to the area may decrease inflammation and pain.  That being said, people who suffer from chronic back pain without inflammation can find relief with a warm bath.

Check with your Chiropractor for the best treatment.

If you would like some further information or to speak to a member of our team please call us on: Hitchin 01462 420077 or Luton 01582 579687, alternatively e-mail us at: or