Dr. Alvin Philipose DC/ Charnelle Dean APRN
Prolotherapy Injections Specialist Near Me in Oklahoma City, OK

405.848.7246
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Debunking Top 7 Myths About Back Pain

They say we live in an age where we can easily find the information we need on almost any topic. This is true without a doubt. If you Google back pain, you will end up with pages after pages of information from various websites. However, not all of them speak facts. You might also come across several back pain myths that offer misleading details. They could potentially affect your understanding of your pain and how well you manage your symptoms. 

As your go-to Oklahoma City specific chiropractor, Dr. Alvin Philipose thought of addressing this matter by debunking the seven most popular myths about back pain. He’s also included remedies that can provide you with lower back pain relief in Oklahoma City.  

Myth #1: Back Pain Appears Out of the Blue

As a clinic providing lower back pain relief in Oklahoma City, we have met with hundreds of patients who used to believe that their back pain appeared without an apparent reason. After working with our Oklahoma City specific chiropractor, they realized that their pain could stem from various things like: 

  • Cervical spine misalignments
  • Nerve pinching along the back
  • Back injury after an accident or due to contact sports 
  • Poor body posture while sitting, standing, or lifting objects
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Inflammatory disorders that affect the joints 
  • Sciatica (or irritation of the sciatic nerve)
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Obesity (due to the excess strain on the backbones and muscles)

Myth #2: Bed Rest is the Only Remedy for an Achy Back

Doctors generally advise patients to rest in bed for no more than three days. Within this period, an injury or trauma to your back can slowly heal, allowing you to experience less intense pain. After the resting period, you should gradually engage in physical activities again. Otherwise, Harvard Health explains that you might experience additional problems such as:

  • Loss of muscle tone
  • Constipation and other digestive problems
  • Painful back sores
  • Blood circulation problem, especially on the thighs and legs
  • Increased susceptibility to depression and anxiety attacks

To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and back pain, download our complimentary e-book by clicking the image below.

Myth #3: Every Type of Back Pain Calls for Surgical Intervention 

Surgical intervention is an option for back pain relief. However, it only works for certain patients, such as those who have failed to ease their pain after seeking other remedies. 

It also works for people with bone spurs or bone overgrowth, a common issue that arises from osteoarthritis. When you have bone spurs along the spine, the excess bone tissues press on nerves such as the sciatic nerve. This results in searing pain that comes and goes. It can also cause nerve damage if the problem persists for years. 

If you have been suffering for years and haven’t tapped into countless options for lower back pain relief in Oklahoma City, you can reconsider surgical operation. Talk to your physician or seek a second opinion. You can also explore pain management techniques such as seeking an Oklahoma City specific chiropractor or making a few adjustments to your lifestyle. 

Myth #4: All You Need is a Back Belt to Keep the Pain at Bay

If you’re a fan of weightlifters, you might have seen them wear back belts during a competition or while working out. You might have also seen commercials or ads on back belts and how they supposedly prevent injuries while lifting objects. However, before you hit “add to cart” and wait for your back belt to get shipped, we recommend reconsidering your decision. 

CDC explains that abdominal belts or back supports don’t prevent injury or provide enough support to your back when you carry a heavy load. Until today, there aren’t enough studies to demonstrate the value of using back belts, especially among laborers. 

Instead of relying on supporting equipment or wearables, we highly recommend applying an effective lifting technique. For example, you should bend your knees and hips and spread your legs apart when you start lifting. 

Myth #5: A Fitness Ball is Better Than an Office Chair

Many office workers who had to shift to remote working arrangements struggled to choose between traditional office chairs and fitness or yoga balls. That’s because companies selling yoga balls position it as a healthier option as it promotes active sitting and engages various muscle groups in the body.

However, in truth, there also aren’t enough studies to back their claim. Many healthcare professionals argue that it can put additional strain on the spine and neck, especially if you don’t use the right size of fitness ball for your workspace. It also puts you at risk of slipping or hurting your back because of the unstable form of the ball.

Myth #6: Applying Heat Helps with the Inflammation 

Heat therapy is probably one of the oldest approaches to dealing with injuries. However, many people still get confused about when to apply heat to their injured muscles or joints. Some believe that they should apply heat to reduce inflammation. 

As a rule of thumb, use heat only after the swelling subside. Otherwise, it will promote blood flow into the injured area and cause increased inflammation. We suggest using a cold compress or ice packs to deal with the swelling. After the injury improves, you can apply a hot compress to speed up recovery.

Myth #7: Stretching Always Works for Back Pain Relief 

Stretching comes in handy in promoting the release of endorphins and releasing muscle tension. However, it doesn’t mean that you should immediately resort to stretching your back whenever you feel it aching. Some causes of back pain get worse after a stretching exercise. Therefore, it’s wise to seek your Oklahoma City specific chiropractor, therapist, or doctor for advice before you enroll in a fitness program. 

Natural Back Pain Relief is Attainable

Now that you’re well acquainted with the truths behind the top 7 back pain myths, you have a better shot at finding an excellent pain remedy. You can start by making a few changes to your posture, especially while working. It might also help to invest in quality workplace equipment like ergonomic desks and chairs. You should also look into changing your mattress or pillow, especially if you notice back pain after waking up. 

Additionally, you might find it helpful to get your spinal alignment checked and adjusted. If your back pain starts appearing after a neck or head injury, or if you suspect spinal misalignment, a specific chiropractor might be the best person to call. 

Specific chiropractic focuses on the entire spine. It aims to realign unlevelled shoulder or pelvic bones, ease muscle tension along the neck and spine, and restore your brain’s communication pathway. Ultimately, it aims to relieve your back pain and prevent the onset of other more serious problems like sciatica and nerve pinching. 

Discover unique neck pain chiropractic solutions in Oklahoma City with Venturis Chiropractic & Acupuncture. You can schedule your appointment with Dr. Alvin, our certified Oklahoma City specific chiropractor, or call us at (405) 848-7246.

To schedule a consultation with Venturis Chiropractic & Acupuncture, call (405) 848-7246, or just click the button below.

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OK 73120, USA
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