Oh, my aching back! Back pain is one of the most common complaints patients bring to the
doctor's office. But how serious is it? Take this quiz and see how much you know about back care.
1. It’s easy to find the cause of low back pain.
You didn't answer this question.
You answered
The correct answer is
The exact cause of low back pain can be hard to determine. In most cases, back pain may be a symptom of many causes. They may include overuse, injury, spinal degeneration, or slipped disk.
2. Low back pain is a rare problem.
You didn't answer this question.
You answered
The correct answer is
Low back pain is one of the greatest health problems facing society today. The National Institutes of Health notes that about 8 out of 10 people have back pain at some time in their life. Back pain is a common cause of activity limits in children and adults of all ages.
3. Which of the following is not used to help diagnose the cause of low back pain?
You didn't answer this question.
You answered
The correct answer is
This is a type of heart surgery. The other procedures may be used to help diagnose the cause of low back pain. Other tests that may be used include X-rays and a radionuclide bone scan.
4. Surgery is the main treatment for low back pain.
You didn't answer this question.
You answered
The correct answer is
There are many treatments for low back pain. Physical therapy, medicines, and changes in activity can all treat low back pain. Other ways to feel better include weight loss, stopping smoking, and using support devices advised by your doctor.
5. Which of these is the correct way to lift a heavy object?
You didn't answer this question.
You answered
The correct answer is
Stand with your feet wide and a slight bend at the hips and knees. Squat down and grab the object. Tighten your belly as you lift and keep your back flat. Keep the heavy object close to your body. Don't hold your breath.
6. Which position helps your back when you sleep?
You didn't answer this question.
You answered
The correct answer is
Sleep with your knees slightly bent and drawn up toward your chest. If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees. Don’t sleep on your stomach.
7. When sitting down, keep your knees slightly higher than your hips.
You didn't answer this question.
You answered
The correct answer is
Sit in chairs that support your back. Use a low-back support, if needed. Keep your knees a little higher than your hips. If necessary, use a low stool to raise your feet, so they are resting on a solid surface.
