Have you ever imagined the worst in relation to your back pain ? If so, you are not alone. My patients share with me almost every day their fears, whether it is about worsening symptoms or the long-term impact on their daily lives. These thoughts can be as paralyzing as the pain itself.
In this article, we will explore these fears, understand their origin and, above all, how to manage them to help you live better with your back pain.
What are the most common fears among people with back pain?
Fear of worsening symptoms
One of the most common fears is the fear that your pain will get worse. This can be related to a relapse after feeling an improvement or at the thought that the back pain will become chronic. This constant anxiety can sometimes be as debilitating as the pain itself, creating a hypervigilance with regard to everyday movements, such as bending, lifting objects or simply walking.
The fear of never fully healing
After having lived for several months, even years With persistent pain, some of you may fear that you will never get back to your previous physical state. This uncertainty about the future can be very frustrating, especially if you feel like you lose control of your body.
The fear of no longer being able to do your favorite activities
If you enjoy physical activities like running, bricolage, Or the racket sports, you may be worried that you will have to give them up for good. This limitation can be very difficult to accept, especially for active people who like to push themselves.
Fear of becoming dependent on medications or treatments
Some of you probably use medications to relieve pain. You may worry that these treatments will become ineffective over time, or that doses will need to be increased, leading to side effects such as fatigue, headache to nausea.
Fear of social isolation
Back pain can also affect your social relationships. You may have already had to cancel activities or events because of your pain, which can lead to feelings of isolation. Many of my patients worry about becoming “the person who always complains” or being seen as a burden by their loved ones.
Fear of losing independence
If you are older, you may be afraid of lose your autonomy because of your back pain, having to use a cane or a Wheelchair, or even lose your driver's license if your mobility becomes too limited.
Fear of seeing retirement plans ruined
Some people consider their retreat with big plans like traveling, camping, or hiking. But with back pain, the fear of not being able to accomplish these plans becomes a source of anxiety.
Fear that the pain is related to something more serious
Finally, a common fear among my patients is that their back pain is caused by something more serious, such as a cancer. This fear is often fueled by internet searches or by disturbing stories on health forums.
How to manage these fears and regain control?
1. Consult a healthcare professional
One of the best ways to deal with these fears is to consult a professional who can reassure you about your condition and offer you an appropriate treatment plan. Don't stay alone with your worries.
2. Share your fears with those close to you
Talking about your fears with your loved ones, friends or family can help you feel supported and defuse the situation. abstract is essential to avoid feeling isolated.
3. Join supportive communities
It may be useful to join communities where you can chat with people who are going through the same thing as you. Personally, I invite you to join my community on Facebook, where we share tips and resources for staying active despite back pain.
4. Take a proactive approach
It is important not to let yourself paralyze by your fears. Take a proactive approach by making adapted exercises, by following treatments and regularly consulting your physiotherapist or doctor.
5. Remember that most fears are irrational
Finally, it is important to understand that while some fears are well-founded, the majority of them are irrational. Learn to manage your stress and your fears will help you live more serenely with your condition.
If you want to go further in managing your back pain, I encourage you to follow my 21 Day Back Pain Program, which offers progressive and adapted exercises on your terms.
👉 Sign up here for the 21 Day Back Pain Program
For an even more comprehensive approach, discover Lombafit Studio, our guided exercise platform, designed to improve your back health.
👉 Discover Lombafit Studio here
References
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy for patients with chronic pain.
- Arnold YL Wong, Jaro Karppinen et Dino Samartzis (2017) Low back pain in older adults: risk factors, management options, and future directions.
My name is Anas Boukas and I am a physiotherapist. My mission ? Helping people who are suffering before their pain worsens and becomes chronic. I am also of the opinion that an educated patient greatly increases their chances of recovery. This is why I created Healthforall Group, a network of medical sites, in association with several health professionals.
My journey:
Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Montreal , Physiotherapist for CBI Health,
Physiotherapist for The International Physiotherapy Center