Want to learn more about your MSK health? Ask a chiropractor
Date: May 25, 2016
Over 11 million Canadians are affected by back pain and other MSK conditions every year.1 The exact cause(s) of back pain or why some people may be at greater risk continue to be hot topics of discussion among researchers and clinicians alike. What we do know is that back pain and other MSK conditions are very common and that it is likely that you or at least someone you know is suffering. Yet, by the time you feel pain, or at least decide to seek out care, you may not know who to talk to or where to go. The more you know about MSK health, the better prepared you will be if you or someone you know is suffering from an MSK condition.
At times, a lack of educational information for patients around MSK conditions can create unnecessary fear. More knowledge enables the patient to feel empowered in taking their first steps towards living healthier. In addition to general health knowledge (i.e., health literacy), it is also important for patients to know who among their healthcare team can provide valuable resources and education about MSK health. Consider visiting a chiropractor who can help support you to understand your MSK health.
Patient education has been suggested as an effective means to prevent and manage back pain.2 There are a number of self-management strategies that can also help you prevent pain and dysfunction. With support and resources available, you can take charge of your MSK health, proactively preventing pain to improve your overall health. Start the conversation with your chiropractor to build the necessary confidence and understanding of your health so you can make positive decisions for tomorrow.
The CCA also has some helpful information online on MSK health. Check out these helpful tips:
- How you can manage back pain and prevent it
- Understand what causes low back pain
- Consider your posture
- Visit your chiropractor and ask questions
References 1 Building a Collective Policy Agenda for Musculoskeletal Health and Mobility; Canadian Orthopaedic Care Strategy Group backgrounder report. 2010. 2 Traeger AC, Hübscher M, Henschke N, Moseley GL, Lee H, McAuley JH. Effect of primary care-based education on reassurance in patients with acute low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Intern Med. 2015;175(5):733–43.