Is your low back pain sometimes so unbearable that you can’t perform your daily activities? Do you need to take pain medication in order to function properly, and even then it’s difficult because it never really goes away? Read on for 7 surprising facts about low back pain in the USA!
1. LOW BACK PAIN MAKES LIFE HARDER
You are not alone in your suffering – according to American Physical Therapy Association’s survey, nearly 40% of adults in the USA state that low back pain has affected their capacity to engage in everyday life tasks (39%), physical activity (38%), and sleep (37%).
2. LOW BACK PAIN – EVEN WHEN YOU SIT ALL DAY
Low back pain doesn’t just affect those who spend a lot of time standing or walking! In reality, more than 54 percent of Americans who suffer from low back pain spend a big part of their workday sitting.
3. LOW BACK PAIN IS MORE COMMON IN WOMEN
31% of men report that low back pain affects their ability to work, while the same is reported by 20% of women in the United States. But, in general, women are more likely to suffer from this condition – 30% of women experience low back pain in comparison to 26% of men.
4. LOW BACK PAIN AND MEDS
When suffering from low back pain, approximately 75% of Americans use pain medication in order to relieve their symptoms; 55% said they use heat and cold packs for relief. Most patients experiencing occasional, short-lasting low back pain use anti-inflammatory medications. However, when pain is chronic they tend to use opioids.
Remember, that recent research shows that opioids usually provide only a short-term relief, but they carry many risks, such as hormonal changes and dependency. If you’ve experienced this pain for longer than 3-4 days, consult with your physical therapist in Raleigh in order to find a safer and more effective solution.
5. LOW BACK PAIN AND ASKING FOR HELP
Even though early participation in physical therapy shows a statistically significant improvement in low back pain, it is reported that 37% of Americans do not seek professional help – this could be the reason why most people who suffer from LBP never know the primary cause of their condition! That’s why it is so important to ask a physical therapist in Raleigh for support – they will find the cause of your low back pain and get to the source of the problem.
6. LOW BACK PAIN AGAIN?
60-80% of adults experience a recurrence of low back pain within two years. Ask your physical therapist in Raleigh for assistance as early as possible – don’t develop chronic low back pain and join the 7% of Americans who suffer from this condition long-term.
7. LOW BACK PAIN AND PHYSICAL THERAPY
According to a study published in the journal Health Services Research, initial treatment expenses were 50% lower when a primary care consultation resulted in a referral to a physical therapist, rather than to a referral for advanced imaging. The study also found that applying physical therapy as a first treatment plan lowered the cost for the patient by 72% within the first year. A survey by Peter D. Hart Research Associates shows that patients believe physical therapy to be very effective. In short – physical therapy in Raleigh is your best bet to get rid of low back pain effectively and permanently.
Though low back pain is a common issue, it does not need to be a part of your everyday life! Physical therapists advise that supervised activity may speed up your recovery. The majority of low back pain cases are not serious; more often than not the condition is caused by overuse, strain, or injury. Seldom is low back pain caused by a more grave condition, for example, a herniated disc or osteoarthritis. If your low back pain lasts more than a few days or gets worse, it is advisable to make an appointment with a physical therapist in Garner, Holly Springs, Raleigh, Morrisville or Cary.
Physical therapy in Holly Springs, Garner, Raleigh, Morrisville and soon, in Cary
For comprehensive low back pain care, you may get a referral to Raleigh Orthopaedic Therapy Services, or make an appointment on your own. The team of licensed physical therapists, licensed athletic trainers, and exercise physiologists provide world-class, cost-effective physical therapy services through our team of well-educated, experienced professionals, and support personnel.
For your convenience, physical therapy is offered at our eight clinic locations in the Triangle. To schedule a therapy appointment at one of our clinics or performance centers, please call (919) 863-6996. For any other questions or concerns, please call our main therapy number (919) 781-4060.