There is a lot of false information out
there with regards to back pain. About 80% of the population suffers from back
pain at some point in their lives, but you don’t have to suffer alone. Knowing what to do when you have back pain is important. A
sedentary lifestyle, as well as injuries, arthritic changes and aging can all
lead to problems. Here are some common myths and facts about back pain and
chiropractors.
Myth: Bed
rest is a great treatment for back pain
Fact: At
one time, many people believed this to be true. But in fact, bed rest may
worsen your back pain unless it is so severe that you cannot move. See a health
professional such as a chiropractor about chronic or new back pain.
Myth:
Applying heat is recommended for a sore back
Myth:
Pain is the main indication that something is wrong
Fact:
Pain in your back is definitely an indication that something is wrong,
especially if the pain is chronic and stops you from doing everyday chores and
activities. But you don’t always feel pain in your back when there is a
problem. Restricted movement or discomfort in your arms, legs and shoulders are
also indications that something’s up with your spine.
Myth: An
adjustment “cracks your back”
Fact:
Chiropractors manually adjust your spine to restore function and decrease pain
due to abnormal joint function and muscle tightness or spasm. A popping sound
sometimes occurs due to air being released when a joint space is opened. Most
patients experience immediate relief following an djustment; however, some may
expereiecne temporary pain, stiffness or slight swelling.
Myth: You can’t
stop going once you start
Fact: Each
patient is clinically assessed and provided with a personalized treatment protocol. Many conditions only
require a few treatments. An acute problem such as overdoing it at the gym may
respond quickly, while other chronic problems may benefit from a more
comprehensive treatment regime. Also, some people find it beneficial to undergo
maintenance care in order to feel their best. However, that’s optional and
completely patient-directed.
Myth:
Chiropractors only work on your back
Fact:
Chiropractors are trained to care for all the joints in your body. They can
help with injuries to area such as the spine, wrist, shoulders and ankles, as
well as conditions such as osteoarthritis, ligament sprains and chronic pain
syndrome.
Myth:
Chiropractors are not real doctors
Fact: To
practice in Canada, chiropractors must complete four years of post-graduate
study and 4,200 hours of specialized clinical training. That can be upwards of
8 years of schooling on average for most chiropractors. They are one of a
limited number of health professionals entitled to use the designation of
“doctor”.
Myth: Neck
adjustments can be dangerous
Fact: Adjustment
techniques have been researched extensively. Complications are rare and side
effects, such as temporary soreness, are usually minor. There are comprehensive
clinical practice guidelines that chiropractors refer to when recommending a
neck adjustment. Chiropractors are well trained to determine if your problem will
respond to chiropractic are or if you require a referral to another healthcare
provider.
Myth: You must
be referred to a chiropractor by a medical doctor
Fact:
Chiropractors are legislated as primary-contact health professionals in every
province in Canada. This means that patients can consult them directly.
However, chiropractors often work closely with medical doctors, many of whom
refer to chiropractors when they believe chiropractic treatment will help
alleviate a patient’s condition. Similarly, chiropractors frequently refer to
medical doctors when necessary.
So what to do when you have back pain?
Have regular spinal check-ups, practice recognized self-care and see a
chiropractor.
Resources
Canadian
Chiropractic Association. 2013. http://www.chiropracticcanada.ca/en-us/backs-and-health/back-care-tips/healthy-back/myths---facts.aspx
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