WELLNESS | BACK CARE

Back Pain Does Not Always Mean Something Is Wrong With Your Spine

Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems worldwide. It can affect daily movement, work, social activities, and overall quality of life.

But an important point is often overlooked:

Pain does not always mean that there is a serious problem with the spine.

Understanding Non-Specific Low Back Pain

The World Health Organization classifies low back pain into different categories, including specific and non-specific low back pain.

Non-specific low back pain refers to pain where no specific disease, structural problem, or other identifiable cause can confidently explain the symptoms.

It is the most common presentation of low back pain, accounting for approximately 90% of cases.

This does not mean that every episode of back pain is harmless. Certain conditions can cause specific low back pain and may require medical assessment.

Why Can Back Pain Feel Different From Person to Person?

Low back pain can be influenced by a combination of physical, psychological, and social factors.

WHO identifies several factors associated with non-specific low back pain, including low levels of physical activity, high physical stress at work, smoking, and obesity. Sleep and mental well-being can also be relevant to managing symptoms and returning to normal activities.

This is why there is not always one simple explanation for why someone experiences back pain.

What Can Help?

For non-specific low back pain, WHO emphasizes approaches that support movement, physical function, self-management, and return to meaningful daily activities. Staying physically active, maintaining good sleep, supporting mental well-being, and making appropriate ergonomic adjustments can all be part of self-care.

Massage may also be considered as one complementary option for some people. However, the evidence is not strong enough to suggest that massage is the best solution for every type of back pain. NCCIH notes that research has found only weak evidence for massage in low back pain, with some studies suggesting short-term improvements.

A More Balanced Way to Think About Massage

Rather than thinking:

“My back hurts, so I need a stronger massage.”

It may be more useful to consider what your body is experiencing and choose an approach that feels appropriate for you.

Massage can be part of a broader self-care routine, but it should not replace professional medical assessment when symptoms require it.

When Should You Seek Professional Care?

Low back pain can sometimes be associated with an underlying condition that requires medical attention.

If symptoms are severe, persistent, unusual, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seeking advice from a qualified healthcare professional is appropriate.

The goal is not simply to make pain disappear temporarily, but to understand what may be contributing to it and support a safe return to everyday activities.

A Note from Sirigaya

At Sirigaya Thai Massage, we believe that body care does not have to be about finding the strongest pressure.

Sometimes, it is simply about taking a little time to slow down, listen to your body, and choose an approach that feels right for you.

Take a moment. Slow down. Take care of yourself.

References

• World Health Organization. Low back pain. 2023.

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Massage Therapy: What You Need To Know.

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Low-Back Pain and Complementary Health Approaches.