How much do you know about back pain?
Comments Off on How much do you know about back pain?1. True or False – Individuals with back pain always have degenerative changes that can be seen on spinal imaging (CT, MRI)
Answer: False – Degenerative changes are common but not always found on imaging. However, people with absolutely no pain can also have degenerative changes on imaging.1
2. Low back pain accounts for what percentage of work injuries resulting in work disability?
Answer: B – 33% Low back pain is the leading cause of work injuries that result in work disability. As much as 17% of those with a work-related back injury will miss between 1-6 months of work.6
3. True or False – Rest and medication are the best treatment for low back pain
Answer: False – Passive approaches (rest and medication) are linked with worsening disability. Research shows that physical therapy and exercise are associated with lower levels of disability and less reliance on formal health care.2
4. True or False – Most low back pain is unrelated to identifiable spinal pathology.
Answer: True – Despite what most people think, most back pain comes from non-specific low back pain. Research shows treating symptom behavior rather than a specific tissue can help improve overall outcomes.2
5. Which of the following interventions are effective in adults with low back pain?
Answer: A – Exercise and education are effective treatments for low back pain and are included in your physical therapy plan of care. – Although a back brace and shoe insoles may be appropriate, you should talk to your physical therapist about these interventions.5
6. What percentage of 30–39-year-olds with NO back pain have disk degeneration found on MRI?
Answer: D – Studies have found that up to 52% of people aged 30-39 who have no back pain symptoms have findings of disc degeneration. These changes are likely related to the normal aging process rather than a pathologic process.1
7. What percentage of disc herniations can be completely resolved?
Answer: D – Research has found that the rate of complete resolution of disc herniation is 43% with conservative treatment.3