My uncle hurt his back at work but refuses to slow down. We're worried he's going to re-injure himself. What can we say that might convince him?
Studies of patients with low back pain are ongoing. Researchers are trying to find out how to tell who will end up with chronic back pain and possibly prevent it. Others are looking for the best ways to treat back pain to get people back to their regular routine of activity.
Recently, it's been discovered that some people are so afraid they will re-injure themselves that they stop moving. Or they may change the way they move in order to keep from having any pain.
This is called fear avoidance behavior (FAB). There's a movement amoung doctors, psychologists, behavioral counselors, and physical therapists to help patients break out of this pattern.
A study from the Netherlands also showed some evidence that there are people who cope with their pain much the way your uncle has. They use endurance strategies and overload their body. This can lead to overuse and further injury but no one has actually studied it yet to know for sure.
Most experts advise getting back to regular work and physical activities as the best way to deal with back pain. Your uncle may be more right than wrong in this issue. Without good evidence to suggest he should slow down, there may be no reason to moderate his behavior.
« Back
All content provided by eOrthopod® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission. Alteration of these documents in any way is a violation of the copyright.