The Truth About Back Pain: Separating Facts from Fiction

Andrea Lai
Jul 25
2 min read

Back view of a woman in a blurred backdrop. Text reads: "Back Pain Myths Debunked. Get the Facts. Heal the Right Way." Buttons: Truth, Myth.

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek help — yet it's also one of the most misunderstood. Misinformation often leads to fear, over-reliance on rest, or unnecessary treatments. If you've been told to just “rest more” or “wait it out,” it’s time to set the record straight.

Myth #1: Complete Bed Rest Is Best

Woman in gray tank top sits on bed, hugging knees, looking down, appearing reflective. White sheets and bright window in background.

Resting may help in the first 1–2 days of acute back pain, but beyond that, prolonged inactivity can make things worse. Movement improves blood flow, reduces stiffness, and speeds up tissue healing.

Physio Tip:

A physiotherapist can guide you through gentle movements that are safe and help you heal faster.

Myth #2: MRI or X-ray Will Always Reveal the Problem

Gloved hand holds an X-ray of a spine marked "R" on a light background, showing vertebral details. Medical and clinical setting.

Many people are surprised when their scan looks “normal” despite intense pain — or vice versa. Imaging is helpful in some cases, but not always necessary.

Did You Know?

Studies show many people without any symptoms have bulging discs on MRI. A detailed physical assessment often reveals more than imaging.

Myth #3: If Pain Lasts Over 3 Months, You Need Surgery

Surgery is not always the answer. In fact, most non-specific back pain cases respond well to physiotherapy when addressed early.

Person in a blue shirt receives a back examination from another person. Hands are placed on the back, suggesting a chiropractic session.

Research Spotlight:

A 2023 review showed that structured physiotherapy reduces the need for back surgery by up to 45%.

Myth #4: Core Strength Is the Only Solution

Man and woman exercising outdoors, smiling. Woman in purple shirt, man in gray shirt and blue shorts. Greenery in the background.

A strong core is helpful — but it’s not the whole picture. Factors like posture, hip mobility, breathing patterns, stress levels, and daily habits all play a role in back pain.

Whole-Body View:

Physiotherapists look at how you move, not just how strong your abs are.

How Physiotherapy Helps

At Physio@Heart, we use hands-on therapy, guided exercise, and posture education to:

Reduce pain
Improve flexibility and control
Rebuild strength and confidence in movement

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Whether you're dealing with a dull ache or sharp pain, we work with you to create a personalised recovery plan that supports long-term relief and resilience.

Ready to take the next step toward lasting back pain relief? Book a face-to-face consultation with us and experience the benefits of hands-on, personalised physiotherapy.