Read “Back Pain: Myths vs Facts (Part 1 of 3)” here, covering myths like: “Back pain can result in paralysis!” “Back pain indicates a serious underlying problem!” “Back pain is caused by injury!”
Myth: Lower Back Pain Is a Sign of Pregnancy
Truth: Low back pain is commonly felt in the 2nd aand 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. It is rare in the first trimester. If you’ve missed a menstrual cycle, have morning sickness, and have fatigue accompanied by low back pain, you should get a pregnancy test.
Myth: Sitting Causes Back Pain
Truth: Sitting itself does not directly cause low back pain. However, prolonged sitting stresses and strains the core muscles – abdominals, low back muscles, pelvic floor muscles. The lack of movement results in limited blood supply to the soft tissues of the spine. As a consequence: stiffness of the soft tissues and muscle dysfunction result in pain. So it is not sitting that causes back pain, it is prolonged sitting that ultimately causes pain.
Myth: Stress Does Not Affect Back Pain
Truth: It is a common misconception that stress doesn’t affect the musculoskeletal system. However, there are two ways in which stress increases back pain or the perception of back pain:
- Increased inflammation throughout the body. Areas of the body that may be weakened by wear and tear (such as the low back) will face increased inflammation and consequently cause pain.
- Increased perception of pain. Stress often leads to depression and/or anxiety. These two symptoms commonly increase the experience of pain.
Myth: Back Pain Is Not Related to Kidney Problems
Truth: Kidney problems cause pain that radiates directly into the lower back. Two of the most common problems are: kidney stones and kidney infection (pyelonephritis).
If you have any questions about your low back pain, call our office at 586-725-3100 to discuss with one of our doctors.