What is chronic low back pain?

    Last Updated: October 13, 2024

    Low back pain is considered chronic when it doesn’t resolve within 12 weeks.[1] Unlike acute back pain, which tends to go away on its own, chronic low back pain often requires medical intervention. Chronic low back pain is a common condition, affecting 15%–20% of people in the U.S as of 2020.[2] Moreover, an estimated 8.2% of people in the U.S. have severe chronic low back pain, causing nearly 75% of affected people to have difficulties in their social and work lives, while also affecting their body mobility and the ability to perform self-care.[3]