Coronavirus Lockdown Leading To Increased Back Pain
Category: Back Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropi
The coronavirus is affecting the health of our nation in many ways, but it could also be taking a significant toll on our spine. The following information is taken from a survey out of Britain, but the findings mimic what we’ve noticed here stateside. Below, we take a closer look at how the coronavirus lockdown is negatively affecting our spine health.
Lockdown And Spine Health
A recent study of 2,000 adults in the UK found that more than one in three has experienced increased back pain over the last six months. 36 percent of Britons said they have experienced an increased amount of back pain during the past six months when coronavirus restrictions were in place.
Study respondents believe that changes to their work setup played a big role in this new found back pain. Of those with more back pain, one in four attributed their discomfort to a poor home office setup. Other findings from the survey include:
- Respondents between the ages of 25 and 44 were more likely to suggest that their back pain was tied to their attempt to work from home while juggling homeschooling or child care.
- 50 percent of respondents with back pain claimed that stress was a key component of their new back pain, which is understandable in the pandemic climate.
- Nearly 40 percent of respondents said increases in sedentary activities, like TV watching during lockdown, were likely tied to their increased back pain.
- 35 percent attribute part of their back pain to changing sleep patterns caused by the pandemic.
- Despite the increase in back pain, fewer patients are seeking medical assistance from their general practitioner or a specialist.
While this study was only conducted in Britain, it’s likely that the results are amplified here in the United States. Our handling of the pandemic has been far from stellar, so there’s more than enough stress to go around, which can be a back pain trigger. Similarly, lockdowns and shelter at home orders can make it easier for people to skip their regular exercise, which can take a toll on your spine after a while. Make sure you are getting regular exercise, even with these restrictions in place.
Consult with a Back Pain Doctor
And finally, if you’re dealing with back pain, make it a point to set up an appointment with your general practitioner or a specialist like Dr. Sinicropi. Helping patients have access to a medical expert is one of the reasons why we began offering and are still offering virtual appointments. To set one of those up, or to learn more about your appointment options, click here and let us help you get rid of back problems that have developed during lockdown.
