- Back pain is one of the most common reasons for missed work and doctor visits.
- Strained muscles are a common cause of back pain, often due to heavy lifting or sudden movements.
- Back pain is more common as people age, with degenerative changes in the spine contributing to discomfort.
- Tobacco use is linked to higher rates of back pain and slower healing of spinal issues
- Statistics from Cross River Therapy shows that about 540 million people worldwide suffer from back pain at any given time.
- In the United States, about 8 out of 10 individuals experience back problems at least once in their lifetime.
- The WHO reported that in 2020, low back pain affected 619 million people globally. Projections suggest an increase to 843 million cases by 2050.
- Individuals who are overweight and women over the age of 30 face a higher risk of developing chronic pain in the lower back
- The prevalence of lower back pain (LBP) tends to rise steadily with age, reaching its peak between 50 and 55 years
- Women, in particular, experience a higher incidence of LBP compared to men
Back pain refers to discomfort or pain felt in the upper, middle, or lower back, and it is a common condition that most people experience at some point in their lives. The pain can range from mild to severe and may be acute, lasting a short duration, or chronic, persisting for a longer period.
Back pain can result from various causes, including muscle strains, ligament sprains, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and other structural issues in the spine. Poor posture, heavy lifting, sudden movements, and underlying health conditions can also contribute to back pain.
Symptoms may include stiffness, muscle tension, shooting or stabbing pain, and limited range of motion. Treatment options often include rest, over-the-counter pain medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Severe or persistent back pain may require medical attention for a proper diagnosis and more targeted treatment.
Facts about back pain
- Back pain is a widespread issue, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds globally.
- It is one of the most common reasons for missed work and doctor visits.
- Back pain can be acute, lasting a short time, or chronic, persisting for months or even years.
- Strained muscles are a common cause of back pain, often due to heavy lifting or sudden movements.
- Structural Issues: Herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis are structural problems that can contribute to back pain.
- Poor Posture: Incorrect posture, especially during prolonged sitting or standing, can lead to back pain.
- Back pain is more common as people age, with degenerative changes in the spine contributing to discomfort.
- Lack of regular exercise and physical activity can increase the risk of developing back pain.
- Excess weight puts strain on the spine and increases the likelihood of back pain.
- Tobacco use is linked to higher rates of back pain and slower healing of spinal issues.
- Jobs involving heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or prolonged sitting can contribute to back pain.
- Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate back pain and hinder recovery.
- Poor sleep posture or an uncomfortable mattress can contribute to back pain.
- Sciatica is a type of back pain that radiates down the sciatic nerve, causing leg pain.
- Regular physical activity and core-strengthening exercises can help prevent and alleviate back pain.
How many people have back pain?
Back pain is a prevalent global issue, with data from Cross River Therapy indicating that approximately 540 million people worldwide suffer from it at any given time. In the United States, a staggering 8 out of 10 individuals experience back problems at least once, and among the employed population (around 80 million workers), 50% report dealing with back pain annually.
Chronic back pain is a concern for 5% of individuals who initially experience mild symptoms. Notably, lower back pain is a significant subset, affecting 7.5% of the global population in contrast to other areas of the back.
The World Health Organization (WHO) provides further insights, revealing that in 2020, low back pain impacted 619 million people globally. Projections suggest an increase to 843 million cases by 2050, attributed to factors such as population growth and aging.
Back pain statistics by age
Individuals who are overweight and women over the age of 30 face a higher risk of developing chronic pain in the lower back. This susceptibility is often linked to factors such as increased pressure on the spine due to excess weight and the physiological changes associated with aging.
The prevalence of lower back pain (LBP) tends to rise steadily with age, reaching its peak between 50 and 55 years. Women, in particular, experience a higher incidence of LBP compared to men.
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Sources
Lower back pain (WHO). https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/low-back-pain. Accessed 1/23/2024.
57 back pain statistics (Cross River Therapy). https://www.crossrivertherapy.com/research/back-pain-statistics#:~:text=back%20pain%20statistics.-,Globally%2C%20540%20million%20people%20suffer%20from%20back%20pain%20at%20any,have%20back%20pain%20every%20year. Accessed 1/23/2024.
