Understanding Back Pain: Common Myths and Lesser-Known Medical Facts
December 21, 2025283 VuesTemps de lecture: 3 minutes
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Millions of individuals worldwide experience back pain, a common health issue often surrounded by misconceptions that can hinder effective treatment and, in some cases, exacerbate the condition. In this context, Dr. Meghan Murphy, a neurosurgeon at the Mayo Clinic, clarifies prevalent myths about back pain and counters them with established scientific facts.
Is lifting weights the main culprit?
It is a widespread belief that lifting heavy objects is the primary cause of back pain. However, the reality is more nuanced. While improper lifting can lead to injuries, the most significant contributing factors include a sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, excess weight, and genetic predisposition.
Complete rest… a misguided solution
Complete bed rest is one of the most misleading recommendations. Except in cases of acute muscle fatigue for short durations, lack of movement often results in muscle stiffness and prolongs pain, particularly in cases of nerve compression or spinal disc issues. Doctors recommend maintaining light activity, such as walking or swimming, while avoiding sudden movements.
A wallet in the back pocket is not the cause
Sitting on a thick wallet does not directly cause back pain as commonly thought, but it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain or numbness in the hip or leg. The solution is straightforward: remove the wallet from the back pocket when sitting.
Not all pain is serious
Medical estimates suggest that approximately 90% of back pain cases result from muscle strain or minor ligament injuries, improving spontaneously within weeks and not linked to severe spinal diseases.
Exercise… part of the treatment
Contrary to popular belief, avoiding exercise during back pain is not advisable. In fact, regular physical activity, particularly core-strengthening exercises and flexibility training, is one of the most essential methods for treatment and prevention, with the need to adjust exercise intensity according to health status.
Surgery is not the first option
Surgery is not the sole solution for chronic back pain. The vast majority of cases respond well to physical therapy, medications, local injections, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is reserved for cases presenting warning symptoms, such as severe nighttime pain, limb weakness, or bowel or bladder dysfunction.
The ideal mattress… a relative concept
There is no perfect mattress for everyone. The best choice is a mattress that offers a balance of support and comfort, tailored to each individual's body structure and health condition.
Poor posture leaves lasting effects
Repeated incorrect postures, such as leaning for extended periods in front of screens, fatigue the spine and muscles, potentially leading to chronic pain. Experts recommend improving the work environment and taking regular breaks to stretch and move.
How to protect our backs?
To maintain long-term back health, doctors advise:
- controlling weight to reduce pressure on the spine.
- strengthening abdominal and back muscles to support the vertebrae.
- maintaining regular physical activity.
- adhering to proper sitting and standing postures.
While some back issues may stem from unavoidable injuries or challenging genetic factors, correcting misconceptions and following appropriate medical advice can significantly reduce the risk of injury, limit pain intensity, and enhance daily quality of life.
Is lifting weights the main culprit?
It is a widespread belief that lifting heavy objects is the primary cause of back pain. However, the reality is more nuanced. While improper lifting can lead to injuries, the most significant contributing factors include a sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, excess weight, and genetic predisposition.
Complete rest… a misguided solution
Complete bed rest is one of the most misleading recommendations. Except in cases of acute muscle fatigue for short durations, lack of movement often results in muscle stiffness and prolongs pain, particularly in cases of nerve compression or spinal disc issues. Doctors recommend maintaining light activity, such as walking or swimming, while avoiding sudden movements.
A wallet in the back pocket is not the cause
Sitting on a thick wallet does not directly cause back pain as commonly thought, but it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain or numbness in the hip or leg. The solution is straightforward: remove the wallet from the back pocket when sitting.
Not all pain is serious
Medical estimates suggest that approximately 90% of back pain cases result from muscle strain or minor ligament injuries, improving spontaneously within weeks and not linked to severe spinal diseases.
Exercise… part of the treatment
Contrary to popular belief, avoiding exercise during back pain is not advisable. In fact, regular physical activity, particularly core-strengthening exercises and flexibility training, is one of the most essential methods for treatment and prevention, with the need to adjust exercise intensity according to health status.
Surgery is not the first option
Surgery is not the sole solution for chronic back pain. The vast majority of cases respond well to physical therapy, medications, local injections, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is reserved for cases presenting warning symptoms, such as severe nighttime pain, limb weakness, or bowel or bladder dysfunction.
The ideal mattress… a relative concept
There is no perfect mattress for everyone. The best choice is a mattress that offers a balance of support and comfort, tailored to each individual's body structure and health condition.
Poor posture leaves lasting effects
Repeated incorrect postures, such as leaning for extended periods in front of screens, fatigue the spine and muscles, potentially leading to chronic pain. Experts recommend improving the work environment and taking regular breaks to stretch and move.
How to protect our backs?
To maintain long-term back health, doctors advise:
- controlling weight to reduce pressure on the spine.
- strengthening abdominal and back muscles to support the vertebrae.
- maintaining regular physical activity.
- adhering to proper sitting and standing postures.
While some back issues may stem from unavoidable injuries or challenging genetic factors, correcting misconceptions and following appropriate medical advice can significantly reduce the risk of injury, limit pain intensity, and enhance daily quality of life.
