Test your knowledge about low back pain! Select True or False for
each statement on the left. Then see how you did by checking the correct answers
and explanations.
1. Weight-reduction
after the onset of low back pain is of no benefit, since the damage has
already occurred.
a) True b) False
2. Increased low back
pain, loss of bowel and bladder control, and increased numbness, tingling,
and weakness in both legs may indicate a serious problem. I should call
my doctor immediately.
a) True b) False
3. Although heavy backpacks
for children may be uncomfortable, they are not usually associated with
long-term problems.
a) True b) False
4. If I have a herniated
disk in my low back, anti-inflammatory medicines and physical therapy
may help, but eventually I will need surgery.
a) True b) False
5. Recent advances in
back surgery for herniated disks have allowed for less invasive surgery,
less pain, shorter hospital stays, and earlier return to work and activities.
a) True b) False
6. Smoking has no effect
on low back pain.
a) True b) False
7. Using proper lifting
technique, exercising regularly, and using a lumbar support belt when
I am lifting heavy objects will prevent low back injury.
a) True b) False
8. Proper conditioning
to address low back pain includes maintaining strength and flexibility
of the back, abdominal, hip flexor, and gluteal muscles, as well as aerobic
fitness.
a) True b) False
9. Low back pain is
common not only in pregnant women, but also in new mothers, even if no
back pain was present before the pregnancy.
a) True b) False
10. Just after back
pain begins, you should rest in bed for at least one week.
a) True b) False
How well did you do? Click the link below to find out.
Reviewed By: Benjamin D. Roye, M.D., M.P.H., Orthopaedic Surgery, The Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
