The emotional journey of living with back pain

Written by: Liz Wullems-Griffioen, CMO Healactively

Reviewed by: Noah Köppel, Physiotherapist (Kantonsspital Winterthur, Switzerland) and Research Associate (Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences - OST)

Living with back pain can be a profoundly isolating and challenging experience, affecting every facet of your life—from work and personal relationships to your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you're stationed behind a computer for hours, a parent lifting and chasing after young children, or someone who embraces an active lifestyle through sports and physical activities, back pain can be an unwelcome companion on your journey. Understanding the emotional roller-coaster that comes with back pain, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by different lifestyles, and exploring effective coping mechanisms are essential steps towards managing this condition. Here, we explore the emotional journey of living with back pain and offer guidance on navigating this path with resilience and support.

The Emotional Impact of Back Pain

For the Desk-Bound Professional

Sitting at a desk for prolonged periods can lead to or exacerbate back pain, often resulting in a cycle of discomfort and stress. The constant nag of pain not only diminishes productivity but also impacts your concentration and job satisfaction. The emotional toll can manifest as feelings of frustration, helplessness, and even depression, as the pain becomes a barrier to professional growth and personal happiness.

For Parents of Young Children

Parents juggling the demands of young children while managing back pain face a unique set of challenges. The physical exertion of carrying children, bending over to pick up toys, and the constant on-the-go lifestyle can intensify the pain. This physical strain is coupled with an emotional burden, as parents may feel guilt over their perceived limitations in engaging fully with their children or frustration at their pain hindering their caregiving abilities.

For the Active Individual

For those who lead an active lifestyle, back pain can feel like a cruel setback. It can limit your ability to engage in sports and activities that not only keep you physically fit but also serve as a vital outlet for stress relief and mental clarity. The emotional journey here often includes anger, denial, and bargaining, as you grapple with the need to modify or temporarily give up cherished activities for the sake of healing.

Coping Mechanisms and Support

Acknowledging Your Emotions

The first step in managing the emotional journey of living with back pain is acknowledging your feelings without judgment. Recognize that it's normal to feel frustrated, sad, or angry about your situation. Giving yourself permission to feel these emotions can be liberating and is the first step towards emotional healing.

Seeking Support

Whether it's from family, friends, or support groups, sharing your experiences and struggles can provide a sense of community and understanding. Online forums and local support groups offer platforms to connect with others who are navigating similar challenges, providing a space for empathy, advice, and shared experiences.

Professional Guidance

Consulting with healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists, chiropractors, and psychologists, can offer both physical and emotional relief. These experts can provide tailored advice, treatment plans, and coping strategies to manage both the physical symptoms and the emotional stressors associated with back pain.

Lifestyle Modifications

Simple lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference in managing back pain. For desk workers, ergonomic setups, regular breaks, and stretching exercises can alleviate strain. Parents might benefit from incorporating physical activity into playtime with their children. Active individuals can explore alternative exercises that maintain fitness without exacerbating their condition, under the guidance of a physical therapist or a certified trainer.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques can be powerful tools in managing the emotional stress of living with back pain. These practices promote mental clarity, reduce stress, and can even have a positive effect on physical pain by enhancing your pain tolerance and changing your perception of pain.

Healactively Self-Assessment for a Personalized Back Wellness Program

Recognizing the multifaceted nature of back pain, Healactively offers a comprehensive self-assessment designed to tailor a back wellness program to your individual needs. This tool considers not only your physical symptoms but also the lifestyle factors and emotional challenges that contribute to your back pain. By completing the Healactively self-assessment, you gain access to a personalized program that aims to strengthen and support your back, adaptable to your current fitness level and daily routine.

This personalized approach ensures that you receive a holistic plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of living with back pain, empowering you to take control of your health and well-being.

Take the Self-Assessment here -