Who is affected by low back pain
Back pain is very common in adults. About two-thirds of adults have low back pain at some point in their lives.1
- Low back pain is age-related. It generally begins to affect people in their 30s to 50s.1
- Low back pain is the most common cause of work-related limited activity in people younger than 45.1 (It can also cause disability in people older than 45.)
- Low back pain is not common before adolescence, although spinal injuries can occur.
- Low back pain may be more common in men and in people who:2
- Smoke.
- Frequently lift heavy objects or children.
- Are in poor physical condition.
- Low back pain may be more likely in people who:2
- Are under mental stress.
- Have other chronic pain.
- Are not satisfied with their job.
Being involved in workers' compensation issues or lawsuits can delay recovery from low back pain.
Fortunately, 90% of people with low back pain recover within 6 weeks, and up to 95% recover within 12 weeks. Over 98% recover within 1 year.3
| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH Ralph Poore | Last Updated: March 31, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine | |
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