Nearly 65 million Americans report a recent episode of back pain. About 16 million adults
In recent years, reports of back pain and chronic pain in the United States have increased significantly, especially after the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Studies based on the National Health Interview Survey show that the prevalence of chronic pain among U.S. adults rose from around 21% before the pandemic to over 24% in 2023, which represents millions more people living with persistent pain that can affect daily activities and overall quality of life. Much of this increase is linked to factors such as a more sedentary lifestyle, prolonged social isolation, an aging population, and health conditions like obesity, all of which raise the risk of musculoskeletal problems, including back pain. These numbers reflect a broader trend of growing chronic pain, with a major impact on public health, individual well-being, and the U.S. healthcare system.