Back pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While most cases of back pain are not severe and can be managed with self-care measures and over-the-counter pain medications, others may require medical attention from a back specialist.

Unfortunately, many people make mistakes when managing their back pain, which can worsen symptoms or even cause chronic pain. This article will discuss the ten common mistakes in back pain management and how to avoid them, emphasizing the importance of consulting with a back pain doctor.

1. Pain Ignorance Is the First Wrong Step

One of the biggest mistakes people make regarding back pain is ignoring it. Many believe the pain will go away alone or is a normal part of aging. However, ignoring the pain can lead to further discomfort to the back, leading to chronic pain and even disability. If you are experiencing back pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention, especially if the pain persists for more than a few days.

2. Self-Diagnosing Is Not Wise

Another mistake people make is self-diagnosing their back pain. They may use the internet or ask friends and family for advice on what they think is causing the pain. However, back pain can have many causes and a qualified back specialist can only diagnose it properly. Self-diagnosing can lead to improper treatment, which can exacerbate the problem.

3. A Lot of Pain Medications Add to the Pain

While pain medications can help manage back pain, they should not be the only focus of treatment.

• Pain medications only provide temporary relief and do not address the underlying cause of the pain.

• A back pain specialist can help determine the root cause of the pain and provide appropriate treatment options that address the source of the pain.

4. Resting Is Not Worthy Always

Rest is essential for back pain, but resting too much can worsen the problem. Prolonged bed rest can lead to muscle weakness, making it harder to return to normal activities. It is important to stay active while managing back pain and a back specialist can help guide appropriate activities and exercises.

5. Saying NO to Physical Therapy Is a Curse

Physical therapy is essential to back pain management.

• A back pain specialist can help develop a personalized physical therapy plan that can help reduce pain, improve mobility and prevent future back injuries.

• Physical therapy can also help improve overall health and well-being.

6. Casual Waiting to Seek Treatment Becomes an Issue

Many people wait too long to seek treatment for their back pain. This delay can lead to further back complications and make it harder to manage the pain. It is important to seek medical attention immediately to get an accurate diagnosis and start treatment.

7. Avoiding Back Specialist Consultation Is The Salt to the Injury

One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to back pain management is not consulting with a specialist.

• Experienced back specialists have the knowledge to provide a proper diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan that can address the patient's specific needs.

• They can also help guide preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of future back injuries.

8. Mental Health Negligence is the New Red Flag

Back pain can take a toll on a person's mental health and neglecting it can make it harder to manage the pain. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate back pain symptoms and stress can cause muscle tension and inflammation. It is crucial to address any mental health issues contributing to back pain and seek appropriate treatment.

9. Going for Quick Surgery Can be a Nightmare

While surgery can be a viable option for some cases of back pain, it should not be the first option. Surgery is invasive and comes with risks and it should only be considered after other non-surgical options have been exhausted. A back pain doctor can help determine if surgery is the best course of action and provide guidance on what to expect during and after the procedure.

10. Putting a Full Stop to Exercise Is Sheer Foolishness

Exercise is integral to back pain management, but many people avoid it because they believe it will worsen the pain. As mentioned earlier, inactivity can worsen back pain by weakening the muscles and causing stiffness. Pain specialists can recommend appropriate exercises that can help strengthen the back muscles and improve mobility without exacerbating the pain.

Put an End to All Your Agony!

Back pain management requires a comprehensive approach that considers physical and mental health. Consulting with a pain management doctor can help ensure proper diagnosis and treatment and can help reduce the risk of chronic pain and disability. Contact Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers to reach the best back specialists in OKC and know which treatment plan is suitable for your condition. Let us help you get over it once and for all.

**Disclaimer: This blog post does not establish terms of a doctor-patient relationship and is not intended to be taken as a doctor's advice.