2022 Back Pain Statistics by the Numbers

Chronic back pain is a serious affliction that can greatly impact both your physical and mental health. Back pain affects millions of people worldwide each year and while there are numerous causes to each case, one thing is certain; roughly 25% of Americans experience chronic lower back pain at any given point in time, according to the CDC. Far too many people turn to harmful painkillers for relief, unaware that there are sufficient, drug-free alternatives. While painkillers can provide temporary relief of symptoms, they don’t address the cause of the problems. It’s important to recognize how common chronic back pain is in order to raise awareness about feasible, non-invasive, and drug-free remedies such as chiropractic care.

Back Pain Facts and Figures

• 80% of adults experience back pain at some point in their lives.
  
• Back and neck pain is the #1 cause of job-related disability and one of the leading causes of missed work days.
  
• The majority of back pain is considered “mechanical” or “non-organic,” meaning it’s not caused by serious physical conditions.
  
• At least $50 billion is spent on back pain each year by Americans.
  
• Back pain indirectly costs an estimated $100 billion per year because of lost wages, productivity, legal and insurance expenses.
  
• About 54% of Americans with back pain report that they sit at a desk all day.
  
• 90% of cases are resolved within six weeks.
  
• Chronic back pain is when pain persists for more than 3 months.
  
• Lower back pain becomes more common as people age.
  
• 9 out of 10 patients don’t know the primary cause of their back pain.
  

Most Common Causes of Back Pain

​Fitness level: back pain is more common in those that don’t exercise very often. Regular exercise helps to strengthen the core muscles that support the spine. Even going for a walk every day will help in maintaining spinal health.

Rapid weight gain: obesity and sudden weight gain can put a lot of stress on the spine and neck.

Smoking: smoking restricts oxygen flow to the spinal tissue.

Inactive lifestyle: desk jobs with uncomfortable seats or those with poor posture are more susceptible to back pain.

Genetic disorders: arthritis and other genetic disorders can be at play when it comes to back pain.

Bulging or ruptured disks: since these disks are protective cushions for the vertebrae, ruptured or bulging ones can cause nerve pain within the spine.

Improper lifting: always lift with your legs, not your back. Repetitive, strenuous, and improper movement will put you at a higher risk for back pain.

Back Pain Treatment

If you suffer from back pain, don’t delay in seeking treatment. Petrak Family Chiropractic offers many variations of chiropractic care for treating back pain at any age. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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