A recent study suggests that approximately 80% of individuals may encounter back pain at some point in their lives, with emerging evidence indicating potential links to various common health conditions. Researchers at Sydney’s University of Technology analyzed data from nearly 90,000 individuals to investigate potential associations between back pain and other major health issues. The study drew data from the 2019 National Health Survey in Brazil, where a substantial portion of participants reported experiencing chronic back pain.
While more research is needed to establish causality, the study found a higher prevalence of several diseases among individuals with chronic back pain. Arthritis, depression, and cardiovascular disease were among the most frequently observed conditions, with diabetes, asthma, cancer, and lung disease also more prevalent in this group.
Lead author Associate Professor Rafael Zambelli Pinto highlighted the shared risk factors such as physical inactivity, obesity, stress, and poor sleep that may contribute to both chronic back pain and other non-communicable diseases. The study emphasized the significant impact on daily life when these conditions coexist, with individuals facing limitations in everyday activities.
Dr. Pinto recommended a holistic approach to managing back pain, focusing not only on pain relief but also on addressing broader health issues beyond spinal discomfort. The findings underscore the importance for healthcare professionals to consider the overall health burden on patients with chronic back pain and its implications for independence and quality of life.
The NHS advises that while back pain is common and often improves within a few weeks, individuals experiencing persistent severe pain that disrupts daily activities should seek guidance from a general practitioner. Additional information on managing back pain is available through the NHS website.