- LBP is not a serious life-threatening medical condition.
- Most episodes of LBP improve and LBP does not get worse as we age.
- A negative mindset, fear-avoidance behaviour, negative recovery expectations, and poor pain coping behaviours are more strongly associated with persistent pain than is tissue damage.
- Scans do not determine prognosis of the current episode of LBP, the likelihood of future LBP disability, and do not improve LBP clinical outcomes.
- Graduated exercise and movement in all directions is safe and healthy for the spine.
- Spine posture during sitting, standing and lifting does not predict LBP or its persistence.
- A weak core does not cause LBP, and some people with LBP tend to overtense their ‘core’ muscles. While it is good to keep the trunk muscles strong, it is also helpful to relax them when they aren’t needed.
- Spine movement and loading is safe and builds structural resilience when it is graded.
- Pain flare-ups are more related to changes in activity, stress and mood rather than structural damage.
- Effective care for LBP is relatively cheap and safe. This includes: education that is patient-centred and fosters a positive mindset, and coaching people to optimise their physical and mental health (such as engaging in physical activity and exercise, social activities, healthy sleep habits and body weight, and remaining in employment).
* O’Sullivan PB, Caneiro J, O’Sullivan K, et al Back to basics: 10 facts every person should know about back pain, British Journal of Sports Medicine 2020;54:698-699