Print This PageChronic Low Back Pain Incidence Rising: Obesity, Depression Among Suspected Causes
February 19th, 2009
A recent study conducted at the University of North Carolina found that the incidence of chronic low back pain among North Carolina residents increased more than 5% from 1992 to 2006, doubling the group’s incidence of this condition in 14 years. The study was funded by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
In both 1992 and 2006, surveys were conducted via telephone to individuals 21 years or older; the same definition of chronic low back pain and similar questions were used in both instances. Survey questions focused on issues related to chronic low back pain, including levels of impairment and types of medical care received. Results reported an increase of 3.9% to 10.2% rate of chronic low back pain from 1992 (based on 4,400 respondents) to 2006 (5,300 respondents).
The findings also suggested that diverse groups, including men and women of all ages and black and white races suffer equally from the effects of this condition. The exact cause of the increase in this population remains unclear, but researchers suggested that it may be due to obesity, depression, or increased awareness of the condition of low back pain. They also suspect that a similar trend may be occurring in many other states.
Increasing numbers of cases, along with the rising costs of treatment, are calling for an evaluation of the effectiveness of current treatment options for chronic low back pain.
By: Spine-health staff writer
Sources:
Freburger JK, Holmes GM, Agans RP, et al. The rising prevalence of chronic low back pain. Arch Intern Med. 2009;169(3):251-258.
Additional Reading:
11 Chronic Pain Control Techniques
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
Diagnosis of Depression and Chronic Back Pain
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