Clinic logoDr. Himanshu GaurOrthopedic & Joint ClinicSouth Delhi
Back Pain

Back Pain Myths vs Facts: What South Delhi patients should really know

At the clinic we meet executives from Nehru Place, teachers from GK, and marathoners from CR Park—each with a different version of “Do this, not that.” Here’s the truth our orthopedic team shares during consults so you can stop guessing and start healing.

Orthopedic specialist evaluating a patient's spine

Four common myths we hear every week

Use this as a checklist. If any myth sounds familiar, share it with your family physiotherapist or our care team—aligning expectations is half the battle.

“If I have back pain, I must rest completely.”

Fact: Gentle movement actually helps you heal faster. Long bed rest weakens muscles and stiffens joints. Short walks, light stretching, and guided physio are better choices.

“Every MRI disc bulge needs surgery.”

Fact: Most disc bulges settle with rest, medication, and targeted physiotherapy. We recommend surgery only when there is severe nerve compression causing weakness or loss of bladder control.

“Lifting weights at the gym will worsen my spine.”

Fact: Correct form and progressive strength training protect your back. Our physios often teach core and hip strengthening to support the spine after injury.

“Back pain means I should stop yoga forever.”

Fact: With the right guidance, yoga and Pilates can calm chronic pain by improving mobility and posture. You might need to avoid specific poses, not the entire practice.

Simple steps that really help

Keep moving in gentle intervals

Break up long drives or desk time every 40 minutes. Stand, stretch your hamstrings, and take 10 slow steps to reset your spine.

Strengthen core & hips

Pilates, physiotherapy-led strengthening, or supervised gym sessions build the muscles that support your lumbar spine.

Optimise your work setup

Ensure your laptop is at eye level, knees at 90°, and feet flat. A simple lumbar roll can make long meetings more bearable.

Sleep smart

Use a medium-firm mattress. If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between knees; on your back, slide a bolster under the knees to offload the lumbar spine.

When should you see the doctor?

Back pain is common, but certain signs need urgent evaluation. Call our clinic or reach your nearest emergency department if you notice:

  • Back pain with fever, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats.
  • Pain that shoots down your leg with numbness or weakness in the foot.
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control (medical emergency—call immediately).
  • Severe stiffness after a fall or accident.

Need clarity on your back pain?

We combine clinical evaluation, high-quality imaging, and an actionable plan—physio, medication, or minimally invasive solutions—tailored to your lifestyle in South Delhi.

Disclaimer: This article provides educational insight only. Always follow personalised recommendations from your doctor or physiotherapist; do not self-diagnose persistent back pain.