1. Don’t Take Back Pain Lying Down

Lying down may feel comforting, but it’s not usually helpful and may actually delay recovery. Staying as active as you can without pain is the best approach. The old idea that complete rest heals damaged tissue faster has been largely debunked.

2. Back Pain Doesn’t Always Mean Injury

While fractures, disc problems, and soft tissue strains exist, over 50% of back pain cases occur without clear injury. Stress, poor mood, prolonged bad posture, lack of sleep, and anxiety may all contribute. Discussing these factors with a practitioner may help you identify why you are in pain and how to manage it.

3. Your Body Usually Fixes Itself

Most acute back pain resolves within weeks or months, even if severe initially. Learning about your own back and how to support it is key. Seek professional help immediately if you experience:

• Pain radiating down your leg
• Pins, needles, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness
• Changes in bowel or bladder function, appetite, fever, or feeling unwell
• Underlying conditions such as osteoporosis
• Severe pain that doesn’t improve quickly

4. Paracetamol Isn’t Always Effective

Recent studies show that standard GP approaches using paracetamol (Panadol) do not speed recovery, reduce pain, or improve activity levels. Other painkillers are generally no more effective, except anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen (Nurofen).

5. Sustained Stress Can Cause Back Pain

Chronic stress can lead to excessive muscle tension, stiffness, fatigue, and localised back pain. Muscle imbalances and increased inflammatory responses due to stress may also contribute. Managing stress is an essential part of preventing and reducing back pain.

If you’re unsure whether what you’re doing is helping, consulting a professional may save you time and reduce discomfort. It’s also common to seek advice about a friend or family member’s pain. Book in to see one of our practitioners to discover how we may help!

Look after yourselves,
Evan

Thanks to Radio Australia for the idea.

For more guidance on posture and specific back pain care, see our posture tips and osteopathy for lower back pain.