Probability of Experiencing Significant Back Pain/Injury

Low back pain is one of the most common reasons for physician visits and missed work days. About 8% of adults experience an episode of back pain severe enough to limit activity in any given year, and approximately 80% of adults will experience significant back pain at some point in their lifetime. It is the leading cause of disability worldwide.

Back injuries can result from acute events (lifting, falls, motor vehicle accidents) or develop gradually from repetitive strain, poor posture, and deconditioning. Risk factors include sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, physically demanding occupations, poor posture, and psychological stress. Most episodes of acute back pain resolve within 4-6 weeks, but about 20% of people with acute back pain develop chronic back pain lasting more than 3 months.

The total cost of back pain in the US exceeds $100 billion per year, including healthcare costs and lost productivity. Evidence-based treatments include physical therapy, exercise (the single most effective intervention for both treatment and prevention), cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic pain, and spinal manipulation. Surgery is only indicated for a small minority of cases with specific structural problems.