Avoid movement stiffness: doctors share tips on how to protect your back from chronic pain.

Back pain is becoming an increasingly common issue worldwide: scientists estimate that 619 million people suffer from it, and projections suggest that by 2050 this number will rise to 843 million, making it a leading cause of disability globally. This condition significantly impacts quality of life, disrupting sleep, undermining mental health, and turning routine activities, such as playing with children or going to work, into challenging tasks. However, doctors have developed several steps to help prevent and manage it, as noted by BBC Science Focus.

The economic repercussions of back pain are also substantial: in the UK, it costs the government £5 billion annually, while in the USA, it amounts to $635 billion in medical expenses and lost productivity. Despite the prevalence of this condition, there are many misconceptions about back pain. Many believe that pain indicates serious damage, yet most cases are classified as "nonspecific," meaning there is no identifiable structural damage or disease.

Acute back pain often resolves naturally within a few weeks, while chronic pain, lasting more than three months, poses a more complex treatment challenge. Certified physiotherapist Ruth Newsome emphasizes that most cases are not severe and advises patients to wait four to six weeks before consulting a doctor, unless alarming symptoms, such as numbness or unexplained weight loss, arise. The issue is that excessive use of diagnostic imaging, such as MRIs, can exacerbate the problem. Although scanning can identify rare underlying diseases, it often detects age-related changes that are harmless.

According to a study published in the European Journal of Pain, such outcomes frequently lead to unnecessary and invasive treatment methods. For instance, a study involving 400,000 American patients showed that those who underwent MRIs for back pain were more likely to have surgery and take opioids, often experiencing worsening pain within a year.

Movement remains a key recommendation for the prevention and treatment of back pain. Exercise, regardless of type, helps strengthen muscles and improve circulation. Professor Kieran O'Sullivan from the University of Limerick advocates for activities that patients enjoy, emphasizing their sustainability rather than prescribed routines. Regular movement, even walking, combats stiffness and promotes healing, debunking the myth that rest is essential for recovery.

Innovative approaches, such as Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT), offer promising alternatives for addressing this issue. PRT targets the psychological roots of chronic pain, helping patients alter their perception and reduce brain activity related to pain. Similarly, CFT addresses physical, psychological factors, and lifestyle, providing better long-term outcomes compared to standard treatment methods.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that could affect your health. If you are experiencing problems, consult a specialist.