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Myths and perceptions of back pain in the Norwegian population, before and after the introduction of guidelines for acute back pain

The Research Unit, The Norwegian Back Pain Network, HALOS, University of Bergen, Norway, Camilla.ihlebaek{at}psych.uib.no

Hege R. Eriksen

The Research Unit, The Norwegian Back Pain Network, HALOS, University of Bergen, Norway

Aim: Deyo's seven ``myths'' about back pain are based on common misconceptions of causality and therapy of back pain. These myths were alive in the Norwegian population in 2001; this report investigates whether this is true two years later. Methods: A representative sample of the Norwegian population in 2003 (n=1,014) were asked to rate their agreement with the seven myths. Results: There is significantly less acceptance of all myths except ``Most back pain is caused by injuries or heavy lifting'' in 2003. Myths concerning the use and importance of X-ray were still common: 43% agreed that ``X-ray and newer imaging tests can always identify the cause of pain'' and 50% that ``Everyone with back pain should have a spine X-ray''. Low level of education is still associated with high acceptance of the myths, but the changes from 2001 are most pronounced for these groups. Conclusion: Perceptions in the general population in Norway are slowly changing to be more in accordance with existing knowledge on accurate behaviour and treatment of back pain. This may be related to introduction of new evidence-based guidelines. The difference between educational groups is reduced, but is still a challenge to health professionals and health authorities.

Key Words: Attitudes • beliefs • low back pain • musculoskeletal pain • perceptions • socioeconomic status • treatment

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