Why Rest Isn't Always the Answer for Lower Back Pain

When your lower back starts hurting, what’s the first thing most people tell you? “Take it easy. Rest. Stay in bed for a few days.” While this advice comes from a good place, it’s often exactly the wrong approach for lumbar pain—and it’s just one of several misconceptions that can actually prolong your discomfort.

After helping patients manage back pain for two decades, we’ve noticed certain myths that keep appearing. Let’s clear up some confusion and explore what actually works for lower back relief.

Myth #1: Bed Rest is the Best Medicine

This is perhaps the most common misconception about back pain. Yes, when your back first goes out, you might need a day or two of modified activity. But extended bed rest? That can actually make things worse.

Here’s why: Your spine needs movement to stay healthy. The discs between your vertebrae don’t have their own blood supply—they rely on movement to pump nutrients in and waste products out. When you stay immobile for days, these discs don’t get the circulation they need. Meanwhile, your supporting muscles weaken further, making you even more vulnerable to re-injury when you finally do get up.

The better approach: Gentle movement as soon as you’re able. Short walks, easy stretches, and gradual return to normal activities typically lead to faster recovery than prolonged rest. Your chiropractor can guide you on which movements are safe and beneficial for your specific condition.

Myth #2: Back Pain is Just Part of Getting Older

“I’m getting older, so of course my back hurts.” We hear this constantly, and it’s simply not true. While aging does bring some changes to your spine, pain isn’t an inevitable consequence.

The real issue? Many people become less active as they age. When muscles aren’t regularly used, the neurological pathways connecting your brain to those muscles deteriorate. Then, when you suddenly need those muscles, your brain can’t coordinate them properly, resulting in strains and discomfort.

Think about it—you probably know someone in their 70s who hikes regularly and has minimal back issues, while someone in their 40s who sits all day struggles with chronic pain. The difference isn’t age; it’s activity level and how well the spine is maintained.

The better approach: Stay active throughout life. Regular exercise, proper stretching, and chiropractic maintenance care can keep your spine healthy and functional regardless of your age.

Myth #3: If You Can’t See It on an X-ray, It’s Not Real

Medical imaging is valuable, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Many people with significant back pain have normal X-rays or MRIs, while others with dramatic imaging findings have minimal symptoms.

Why? Because much of lower back pain comes from soft tissue problems—muscle tension, ligament strain, inflammation—that don’t show up clearly on standard imaging. Additionally, X-rays only capture your spine in static positions, not how it moves or functions during daily activities.

The better approach: A comprehensive physical examination by a chiropractor can identify movement restrictions, muscle imbalances, and joint dysfunction that imaging might miss. Understanding how your spine functions is often more important than just looking at its structure.

Myth #4: All Lower Back Pain is the Same

“My friend had back pain and X treatment worked great, so I’ll try that too.” The problem? Your back pain might have an entirely different cause than your friend’s.

Back pain can stem from muscle strains, disc problems, joint inflammation, nerve compression, postural issues, or combinations of these factors. The treatment that works for one type may not work for another. This is why cookie-cutter approaches often fail—effective treatment requires understanding your specific condition.

Some people’s pain comes primarily from sitting for long periods at work. Others develop symptoms from repetitive lifting. Still others have underlying structural issues that need to be addressed. Each scenario requires a different treatment strategy.

The better approach: Get a proper diagnosis. A chiropractor can assess your individual situation, identify the specific factors contributing to your pain, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Myth #5: You Should Wait Until the Pain is Unbearable Before Seeking Help

This might be the most costly misconception of all. Many people try to “tough it out” until their back pain becomes so severe they can barely function. By that point, what might have been a simple fix has often evolved into a more complex problem requiring longer treatment.

Early warning signs matter. That morning stiffness? The occasional twinge when you bend? The tightness on one side? These aren’t signals to ignore—they’re your body asking for attention before a minor issue becomes major.

The better approach: Address problems early. When you first notice symptoms of lumbar discomfort, schedule an evaluation. Early intervention is typically faster, less expensive, and more effective than waiting until you’re in crisis mode.