Incidence & Health Statistics

U.S. Health Impact

Approximately eight out of 10 Americans suffer from back pain at some point in their lifetime.1

Back pain is:


Causes

As many as 60 different medical conditions can cause back pain, including aging, degeneration of vertebrae, or infection. However, most instances of back pain are caused by muscle strain, trauma, overuse due to habitually poor posture, or spinal deformity. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery reports that poor conditioning, improper use of the back muscles, obesity and smoking, each increase the likelihood of back injury.

Treatments

Most cases of low back pain are not serious and respond to simple treatments. Pain from a mechanical disorder such as muscle strain or joint irritation can improve with a combination of limited physical activity, use of over-the-counter pain medication, gentile corrective exercise and most importantly - self education. Although a brief period of rest may be helpful, most studies show that light activity speeds healing and recovery. In fact, staying in bed for more than 48 hours may cause further harm due to weakening of back muscles. Other mechanical disorders that may improve with exercise and over-the-counter medication include osteoarthritis, herniated disk, and scoliosis. However, in some cases, these types of mechanical disorders may require more extensive therapy such as prescription medication and physical therapy.

Medical disorders cause symptoms throughout the body and many medical illnesses can cause low back pain. Diabetics with nerve damage, for example, feel pain in their back as well as other areas. An undetected bone tumor or cancer can also be the cause of back pain. Instances such as these typically do not respond to simple treatments like limiting activity and light exercise, and require a more complete evaluation. A patient must work with their physician to treat the underlying illness as well as the back pain.

In addition to the conventional therapies prescribed by physicians, many patients may also seek complementary therapies to combat back pain. Chiropractic care, massage, reflexology, acupuncture and yoga are all being used to enhance the effects of conventional therapies and ease the symptoms of chronic pain, stress, and anxiety.

Only 2 percent of back problems require surgery. Some arthritic conditions of the spine, when severe, can cause pressure and nerve irritation, and often can be improved with surgical treatment. Surgery also may also be an option when a herniated disk is determined to be the cause of nerve and leg pain and has not responded to other treatments. In nearly all cases, surgery should occur only after all other treatment options have been explored.

Prevention

The normal effects of aging that result in osteoporosis or decreased bone mass, and decreased strength and elasticity of muscles and ligaments, can't be avoided. However, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery says the risk of back pain can be lowered, by following these tips: