The radiation from the X-ray isn't responsible for aggravating back pain, however. The effect appears to be psychological. A report from the Australian Broadcasting Co. says that having the X-ray taken appears to fuel any fears in patients' minds that they are badly hurt. Although bed rest and even traction were once commonly prescribed for people with back pain, doctors now recommend very different care for most sore backs. Maintaining the muscles and ligaments that support the spine is the key.
Medical studies show that too much bed rest actually prolongs recovery.
A story from Britain's Independent reviews the current advice for most people with back pain. About 10 percent of those with back pain fail to recover using conservative treatment. In these people, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged discs in the spine. Patients who need surgery may benefit from improved techniques for repairing injured discs. Science Daily describes one such advance, a procedure called intradiscal electrothermal therapy.