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Myth 1
The cause of musculoskeletal pain can be found on a scan
FACT: Sometimes it will, but most often it won’t. Also, even people without back pain have changes in their spine so scans can cause fear that influences behaviour, making the problem worse #ThePlanNotTheScan.
Myth 2
My pelvis is out of alignment
FACT: Assymetries are common around the body, so it is normal to have variances in alignment without a correlation to pain. Our bodies have the great ability to adapt to our daily positions and postures. #MisalignNotACrime
Myth 3
Moving will make my pain worse and I will cause further damage
FACT: People fear twisting and bending but it’s essential to keep moving. Gradually increase how much you are doing, and stay on the go #MotionIsLotion
Myth 4
If I have a physically demanding job then I don’t need to exercise outside of work
FACT: Studies have shown that manual work does not result in the same benefits as exercise outside of work. Often exercise is of a greater intensity with a variety of movements in side your control, which exerts a greater influence on your overall health. #HealthIsWealth
Myth 5
No Pain, No Gain
FACT: There is a difference between the pain you experience from delayed muscle soreness and the sharp, acute pain that can occur with injury or exacerbation of an existing injury. Improvement and adaptation can still occur without pain, but in certain circumstances, for example in those with chronic pain, activity may not be pain free but must be performed in a paced manner, giving yourself enough time to recover. #Gainwithoutpain
Myth 6
I should avoid heavy exercise as I get older
FACT: You’re never too old to exercise. We can often feel and look younger with regular exercise. Our bodies can change with age, in relation to metabolism, muscle mass and bone density, but can be improved or maintained with graded exercise. #StrongerForLonger
Myth 7
Pain equals damage
FACT: This was the established view but more recent research has changed our thinking. Modern physio takes a holistic approach that helps people understand why they are in pain, and the reason is often not because there is damage to the body #SoreButSafe.
Myth 8
Don’t run, it’s bad for your knees
FACT: Studies have identified that running can be protective to knees, as they can adapt to the load, potentially strengthening the knee overall. However, there are many variables to consider to ensure your knees do not become sore. #FreeTheKnees
Myth 9
Don’t lift weights, it’s bad for your back
FACT: Lifting weights if performed in an appropriate manner can protect your back by improving what your back can tolerate. Although, if performed inappropriately, for example too much weight, too soon this may increase your injury risk. #NothingWrongGettingStrong
Myth 10
Whenever you lift, always keep your back straight
FACT: Studies demonstrate that lifting with a straight or rounded back does not alter the risk of back pain. Although, bending with good
body mechanics can help share the load between joints, other factors, such as repetitive lifting when fatigued, poor physical and mental
health may be more important variables for the development of back pain. #StrongMindStrongSpine
Myth 11
I need a new desk or van to relieve symptoms
FACT: Pain is often the result of the bodies alarm system, informing us of actual or potential harm. In the early phases, it may be the result of healing tissues requiring further recovery, but over a period of time the bodies system can become overprotective and so exercise into some pain can assist recovery. #SoreButSafe
Myth 12
My disc has slipped
FACT: The discs between the boney vertebrae that form our spine, do not have the physiological capability to slide out of position, as they are held firmly by strong ligaments surrounding the spine. #DiscsAreNotDoughnuts
Myth 13
I need a new desk or van to relieve symptoms
FACT: Most people often think of their desk as the culprit for their musculoskeletal pain. Poor workstation ergonomics can cause Musculoskeletal symptoms, but it is not always the cause. It is important to be aware of the wider picture. Regular exercise can prevent musculoskeletal disorder from occurring, so get up from your desk regularly and do what you can to fit exercise into your lifestyle. #AcceptAndAdapt
Myth 14
Physiotherapy needs to be hands on for you to get better
FACT: The most successful forms of Physiotherapy treatment that results in long term improvement is tailored exercise programs. ‘Hands on’ therapy may provide short term benefits, so is commonly used as an adjunct within an appropriate management plan. #NoHandsNecessary
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