Back pain can come on suddenly — while you’re working in the yard, sitting at your desk, cleaning the house, lifting something heavy or for no apparent reason. Once the pain sets in, it can be hard to focus on anything else. Back pain is also very common.
About eight in 10 adults experience back pain at some point, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Persistent back pain can be challenging to treat, but understanding what causes it — and what may help relieve it — can make a difference.
At CarePartners Outpatient Services, our rehabilitation specialists work with patients across Western North Carolina to evaluate back pain, identify contributing factors and create personalized treatment plans. Here, we debunk four common myths about back pain and treatment options — and explain how we can help you find relief.
Myth 1: Back pain is usually caused by an injury.
Fact: Trauma can trigger back pain, but daily wear and tear is just as common. Poor posture, prolonged sitting or standing, and repetitive movements can lead to inflammation of spinal muscles, ligaments and the discs that cushion the vertebrae.
Other causes include structural conditions such as scoliosis, osteoporosis and nerve compression from disc problems.
At CarePartners Outpatient Services, licensed physical and occupational therapists perform comprehensive evaluations to pinpoint the source of pain. Treatment may include targeted exercises, posture training, manual therapy and education to help prevent future flare-ups.
Myth 2: Doctors need imaging services, like X-rays or MRIs, to diagnose back pain.
Fact: In many cases, your doctor or therapist can develop an effective treatment plan based on a physical exam and your medical history. Imaging, such as X-rays and MRIs, may be ordered if pain does not improve or if more serious conditions are suspected.
Imaging tests can reveal abnormalities that are not actually causing pain, sometimes leading to unnecessary procedures.
Through evidence-based rehabilitation, CarePartners clinicians focus first on conservative, noninvasive treatments designed to restore strength, flexibility and function — often without the need for advanced imaging.
Myth 3: Surgery is the only solution for chronic back pain.
Fact: For most people with chronic back pain, surgery is not necessary. It may be considered if severe pain limits sleep or daily function and conservative treatments — such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and lifestyle changes — do not provide relief after six to 12 weeks.
CarePartners works closely with primary care providers and specialists to ensure coordinated care. When appropriate, patients may be referred for further evaluation, but many find significant improvement through nonsurgical rehabilitation.
Myth 4: The best thing for back pain is bed rest.
Fact: Rest can help for a short time, but too much inactivity can make stiffness and weakness worse. For many types of back pain, gentle movement and a guided return to activity can help you heal and feel better.
Your therapist can help you learn which movements to avoid at first, which exercises can help and how to build strength safely.
If you are struggling with back pain that is not improving, you do not have to manage it alone. CarePartners Outpatient Services offers compassionate, comprehensive rehabilitation care designed to reduce pain, improve mobility and help you return to the activities that matter most.
Talk with your doctor about a referral or contact CarePartners at (828) 274-6100 to learn how we can serve you on your path to recovery.