Myths About Low Back Pain

Low back pain, also known as lumbar pain, is one of the most common ailments among the adult population. Although it can be recurrent, we should not resign ourselves to living with back pain. Preventing lower back pain and improving quality of life is possible if we debunk the false myths surrounding this condition.

In this article, Dr. Edna Navas Araque, a specialist from the Pain Clinic at CreuBlanca, clarifies some of the most widespread beliefs about low back pain, its causes and treatment.

Truths and Lies About Low Back Pain

MYTH 1: “If your back hurts a lot, it must be something serious.”
Severe lumbar pain can be concerning, but in most cases, it is not related to serious pathologies. The most common causes of low back pain include muscle tension, poor posture or stress. With proper care and controlled physical exercise, lumbar pain usually subsides without complications.

MYTH 2: “The older you are, the more your lower back hurts.”
Aging is often associated with increased lower back pain, but that’s not always the case. Several studies have shown that staying active, doing back exercises, and following appropriate treatment improves mobility and reduces pain, regardless of age.

MYTH 3: “Maintaining good posture is enough to prevent pain.”
While maintaining good back posture helps, it’s not enough to eliminate lumbar pain. Staying in the same position for a long time can cause discomfort. Frequently changing posture and doing small back stretches is very beneficial for the tissues and helps prevent chronic back pain.

MYTH 4: “Exercise only worsens low back pain.”
One of the most harmful myths about lumbar pain is that physical exercise should be avoided. Unless otherwise advised by a specialist, staying active is one of the best ways to relieve and prevent low back pain. Activities like walking, swimming, or strengthening the lumbar area with proper technique can be very helpful for recovery.

MYTH 5: “Diagnosis is only possible with an imaging test.”
Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs are often linked with any case of lumbar pain. However, in most cases, a detailed clinical evaluation is enough. Imaging is reserved for specific cases, such as suspected structural injuries or when pain persists unusually.

MYTH 6: “Only surgery can fix back pain.”
Believing that surgery is the only solution for chronic lumbar pain is another common mistake. In most cases, traditional treatments such as physiotherapy, therapeutic exercise, and lifestyle changes are highly effective and much less invasive, allowing for progressive recovery without surgery.

MYTH 7: Straining your back worsens injuries.
It’s not about avoiding effort but learning how to do it correctly. Lifting weights or making physical effort with poor technique can cause discomfort, but with proper posture hygiene and progressive muscle strengthening, it’s possible to perform physical tasks without worsening back pain and preventing recurring injuries.

How to Prevent Low Back Pain

• Maintain a regular routine of exercises to strengthen the lumbar spine, tailored to your needs.

• Avoid prolonged inactivity, as a sedentary lifestyle can worsen low back pain.

• Learn how to lift safely to protect your spine and avoid injuries.

• Prioritize quality rest and stress management—key factors in preventing relapses.

• Consult a specialist at the first signs of any type of lumbar pain.

It’s important to stay informed and, in case of discomfort, trust the judgment of healthcare professionals.

At CreuBlanca’s Pain Unit, we combine imaging diagnostics, clinical expertise, and advanced techniques to help you regain your quality of life and avoid unnecessary relapses.