John Elflein
Research expert covering health and health care
Back pain in the U.S. - Statistics & Facts
Back pain is one of the most common medical problems worldwide. It can develop slowly with time or come suddenly and can be a dull, constant ache or a sharp pain. Anyone can develop back pain, but risk factors include age, a lack of exercise, being overweight, or working a job that requires heavy lifting or long periods of sitting. As of 2020, it was estimated that the global prevalence rate of low back pain was 7,460 per 100,000 population. It is predicted that the overall prevalence of low back pain will not change significantly over the next few decades and that in 2050 just over seven percent of the global population will suffer from such pain. In high-income North America alone, there are expected to be around 57 million people suffering from low back pain by the year 2050.
How common is back pain in the United States?
A survey of U.S. adults in 2022 found that around 28 percent reported having chronic low back/sciatic pain. Around 44 percent of those with chronic low back pain reported having such pain for five years or longer and many report a diminished quality of life due to their pain. Common negative impacts reported due to chronic low back pain include not being able to stand for long periods, not being able to exercise or walk as much as desired, and not being able to sleep well. Overall, around 17 percent of those surveyed with chronic low back pain reported it had a major negative impact on their physical health, while 13 percent said it had a major negative impact on their mental health.Common back pain treatments
Most back pain improves with time and home remedies, but those with severe and chronic pain may seek treatment from a medical professional. The most common health care professionals those with chronic low back pain in the United States visit are primary care providers or general practitioners, physical therapists, and chiropractors. Some common treatments people with chronic low back pain report using include over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (OTC NSAIDs), prescription non-opioids or non-NSAIDs, prescription NSAIDS or prescription opioids, and conservative and eastern medicine. However, the effectiveness of current treatment options varies and many sufferers report that common treatment methods are often only somewhat effective. In fact, in 2022, around 84 percent of those with chronic low back pain in the U.S. stated they wished there were better treatment options for their pain.
