The truth about back pain: 5 myths you need to stop believing

Back pain isn't just about ageing, it could be a sign of something more. Good posture, early care, and the right treatment can keep you active and pain-free at any age. (image: Pexele)

Almost every family has someone who groans while getting up from a chair or rubs their lower back after a long day. Most  people call it as age-factor. However, experts warn against dismissing back pain so easily. Sometimes, that dull ache or sudden stab isn’t simply about growing older. It may be your body’s way of alerting you to an issue that can and should be treated.

As you age, back tends to grow. But if the pain lingers or keeps returning, it may signal something serious. “Many people accept back pain as a part of ageing, but often it stems from conditions like arthritis, slipped discs or osteoporosis,” says Dr Praveen Tittal, Director, Orthopaedics at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram. “The good news is that these can be treated successfully if caught early.”

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Mind your posture

The way you sit, stand, and move plays a huge role. “Bad posture can hurt a 25-year-old just as much as a 65-year-old,” explains Dr. Tittal. “Small changes like sitting straight, lifting carefully, strengthening your core, can make a huge difference,”

Old injuries don’t fade

A fall, a sports injury, or even an awkward movement can leave behind lasting change. Left unchecked, such injuries can turn into long-term back trouble. Doctors stress that it’s better to get these checked early than to live with pain later.

Something is serious

While Most backaches are harmless, in some cases they may point to bigger problems such as kidney disease, infections, or even cancer. Persistent back pain accompanied by fever, numbness, or unexplained weight loss should never be ignored.

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Ageing is not synonymous with pain:

Modern medicine today offers many ways to find relief, says Dr Tittal. “From simple physiotherapy and medicines to advanced, minimally invasive surgery, the goal is to keep people mobile and pain-free, no matter their age,”

Keep moving to stay stronger

The old advice that often suggested bed rest is outdated. "Gentle exercise; walking, swimming, stretching, keeps the spine supple and muscles strong. Staying active, say doctors, is one of the best ways to prevent pain in the first place,”

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.