At Capital Health in Des Moines, Iowa, we provide progressive, evidence-based chiropractic and physical therapy for back pain, especially for older adults. Unfortunately, many common misconceptions can lead to ineffective or even harmful treatments. Because of this, education is a critical part of what we do.
A recent research article published in October 2025 strengthens our approach and helps us navigate the complex, often misleading guidance our patients receive from the healthcare system and popular culture. With this research in mind, it’s important to address some of the most persistent misunderstandings.
Let’s Debunk Some Common Myths About Back Pain in Older Adults
- Aging doesn’t guarantee back pain. While common, back pain isn’t an inevitable part of aging. We help distinguish age-related changes from treatable conditions, focusing on specific causes like osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis.
- Serious disease is rare. Most back pain in older adults (around 90%) is non-specific, not a sign of a severe underlying condition. Our team focuses on accurate diagnosis to avoid unnecessary worry.
- Routine imaging isn’t always helpful. Unless “red flag” symptoms are present, routine X-rays or MRIs often cause more harm than good, leading to unnecessary anxiety and interventions. We rely on thorough clinical assessments first.
- Movement is medicine, not harm. Avoiding activities such as bending, twisting, or lifting due to pain can worsen outcomes. Our therapists guide you through safe, progressive movements to build strength and resilience.
- Skip the bed rest. Prolonged bed rest actually delays recovery and can lead to muscle weakness, stiffness, and other health issues. We encourage active recovery and movement to help you get back to your life.
- Medication isn’t the first solution. Many common pain medications offer minimal benefits with significant side effects for older adults. We prioritize non-pharmacological, drug-free treatments as your first line of defense.
- Surgery is rarely the answer for primary back pain. For back-dominant pain without nerve compression, surgery often provides no benefit and carries higher risks, especially in older adults. We explore all conservative options first.
- Pain isn’t always structural damage. Chronic back pain is complex, influenced by factors like fear, stress, and anxiety, not just structural changes. We address both physical and psychosocial aspects of your pain.
- Interventional procedures often fall short. Injections, nerve blocks, and ablations for chronic back pain frequently offer no more benefit than a placebo and carry risks. We focus on treatments with proven, lasting results.
- Disc herniations are a less common cause of leg pain in older adults. While visible on scans, disc issues in older adults are often asymptomatic. We prioritize clinical signs of nerve compression over incidental imaging findings for diagnosis and treatment.
Don’t Let Myths Guide Your Back Pain Treatment
At Capital Health in Des Moines, Iowa, our progressive, evidence-based chiropractic and physical therapy team can help you achieve lasting relief. Schedule at Capital Health today by clicking here!
Citations:
Ammendolia, C. Ten myths of back pain in older adults that can lead to ineffective and harmful care. Chiropr Man Therap 33, 45 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12998-025-00609-9