Table 3 Additional beliefs about activity, rest, and the use of imaging and pain killers
Belief statements | # of respondents | Disagree (1 & 2) n (%) | Neutral (3) n (%) | Agree (4 &5) n (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1. X-rays or scans are necessary to get the best medical care for low back pain | 419 | 86 (20.5) | 106 (25.3) | 227 (54.2) |
2. Everyone with low back pain should have spine imaging (e.g X-ray, CT, MRI) | 416 | 108 (26.0) | 99 (23.8) | 209 (50.2) |
3. If you have back pain, you should rest until it gets better | 419 | 159 (37.9) | 160 (38.2) | 100 (23.9) |
4. If you have back pain, you should try to stay active | 417 | 46 (11.0) bad | 141 (33.8) | 230 (55.2) |
5. Simple painkillers are usually enough to control most back pain | 418 | 200 (47.8) bad | 118 (28.2) | 100 (23.9) |
6. Most back pain settles quickly, and you can get on with normal activities such as going to work | 422 | 165 (39.1) bad | 144 (34.1) | 113 (26.8) |