Busting the Myths!

September 10, 2021SparksMedical ArticlesArthritisElectrical stimulationInflammationLow back painPhysical ActivityRestUltrasound therapy4

• Low back pain is caused by inflammation/arthritis

Inflammation occurs at the acute stage of some form of low back pain. It is worthy of note that the most common type of low back pain is mechanical and is caused by placing abnormal stress and strain on the spine, muscles, intervertebral discs and soft tissues of the vertebral column. The abnormal stress or strain results from bad posture, poor transferring and lifting techniques,  prolonged sitting or standing, poor knowledge of back care ergonomic to mention a few. This type of low back pain is amenable to physiotherapy.

• Low back pain is caused by arthritis

Arthritis simply means degeneration of bone ends and is often associated with aging. However, only few individuals come down with arthritis-related pain on the low back.

• Spinal joints mobilisation is the best way to treat low back pain

Findings from studies have revealed that supervised and individualised exercise therapy is the most effective means of reducing and preventing low back pain as well as reducing its recurrence and resultant disability. Additionally, spinal joint mobilisation is necessary sometimes.

• Electrical stimulation and ultrasound helps in recovery from low back pain

These electrical modalities offer short-lived pain relief. Electrical stimulation helps to activate weak muscles of the back while ultrasound therapy improves blood circulation.  However, neither of them could deal with the main cause(s) of low back pain.

• Avoidance of activity and rest is good in low back pain

Physical inactivity could worsen low back pain. Therefore,  physiotherapists recommend physical activity for all ages as this is very beneficial. For individuals with low back pain, exercises prescribed by a physiotherapist are magical.

Please watch: https://physiosparks.com/2019/10/05/the-crux-of-low-back-pain/

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