90% of low back pain (LBP) cases do not have a specific cause. 5-10% have neurological deficits, while 1-2% of cases have a serious pathology.
What happens when you come to a specialist? Firstly, they’ll have to rule out the concern that your case falls under the 1-2%. This way, we can get a proper diagnosis and suggest advice based on the cause of your LBP. History taking, along with a physical examination, will be used for assessment.
Back Pain Assessment
Your first thought upon your diagnosis might be:
“I’m too scared to move. It might worsen my back pain.”
“I’ll start sitting upright from now on.”
“I will need to undergo surgery to correct my back.”
“My life is ruined now.”
This is just one of the few common misconceptions about low back pain (LBP).
How to tackle Low Back Pain (LBP)
Relaxed movements will help your back pain settle. Although you may be feeling slight pain while moving or doing a light activity, it does not necessarily mean you are doing harm to your body. Too much bed rest is discouraged, as it can make your pain worse.
Graduated exercise and movement can be implemented, as it is healthy for the spine. As you regain your strength, physical activity will gradually increase, suited to your physical capacity. Physical treatment can also help improve function and prevent the pain from getting worse. Moving does not equate to further ‘damage’!
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be in a specific position the whole day to avoid low back pain. In fact, you’re allowed to relax your body. Holding your posture upright for long periods of time can cause tension. If you are in an office environment, make sure to stand up, and stretch once in a while, so that you are not sitting stiff in the chair.
Surgery is not necessary for most LBP cases. Pain relief can come in a few forms, such as light exercise, or physiotherapy. Unless all the noninvasive options have been exhausted, surgery might be recommended by your doctor. Even so, the majority of the patients that go for surgery suffer from more serious LBP, like joint issues or a degenerative spine. This fear should not stop you from seeking help or exploring different options for your back!
Recovery does not have to come at a costly price. It is important to optimize your physical and mental health, while adopting a positive mindset. Pain perception also plays a part, and how you respond to pain relates to how one copes with pain. All in all, it aids in the healing process. High levels of stress, combined with lack of sleep, depression or anxiety are associated with poor response to pain. Having an adaptive coping strategy can lead to less pain and less stress.
Leading up to..
Be confident in your body. You can resume doing normal daily activities, combined with a healthy lifestyle. Work out a plan and have a discussion regarding LBP with your specialist so that you will be able to help yourself. Addressing your thoughts and concerns moving on with LBP can help combat any fears you have!