Health & Fitness

There are certain misconceptions and preconceived notions about orthopaedic problems. Some of these are

• Massage Provides Immense Relief In Chronic Pain

Massage increases blood circulation in affected part and in turn reduces pain. However, in certain orthopaedic problems massage may aggravate local inflammation and may cause acute muscle spasm.

• Prolonged Use of Lumbar Spine Belt And Cervical Collars Are Very Useful

Prolonged use of lumbar-spine belt and cervical collar leads to weakening of muscles and stiffness. The collar and belt should be used as per the advice of doctor and not indiscriminately.

• Persons with Back Pain Should Sleep On A Hard Bed

Persons with chronic pain should sleep on a straight rigid bed. Mattresses that are adequately soft and give proper  Contours are useful. However, very soft mattresses with lumps and Irregular patches should be avoided.

• Persons With Cervical Spondylitis Should Not Use Pillow

A medium sized pillow, which is comfortable, should be used. A very high pillow should be avoided.

• Persons With Back Problem Should Never Bend Forward

Forward bending is restricted in acute phase of prolapsed disc. However, the forward bending muscles are biggest shock absorbers. As the problem gets under control, forward bending is recommended. If these muscles become stiff due to non-use, they will increase load on spine resulting in pain with slightest injury.

• Persons With Orthopaedic Problem Should Be Given Complete Rest

Initially for few days the rest is unavoidable. However, care should be taken that rest does not rust the body. Prolonged continuous rest makes the muscles weak and in turn aggravates the problem.

• Obesity Causes Arthritis

Obesity does not cause arthritis. However, in people with arthritis, being obese puts more burden on the joints and aggravates the pain.

• Arthritis is Caused By Vigorous Exercise

Vigorous exercise does not cause arthritis. However joint injury or infection may cause arthritis. In case of persons with arthritis, vigorous exercise will aggravate pain.

• Certain Foods May Cause Arthritis

Any type of food does not cause arthritis but pain in arthritis is aggravated by certain foods.

• Too Much Exposure To Cold & Moist Weather Causes Arthritis

Arthritis is not caused but pain is aggravated by cold and/or moist conditions.

• Pain In The Back Or Any Part Of Body Is Due To Arthritis

Pain may be due to injury or muscle sprain. Hence, pain in any part of body is not always due to arthritis.
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