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]
What is chronic low back pain?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Chronic low back pain is defined as pain that persists for more than 12 weeks and often requires medical intervention; it affects 15% to 20% of people in the U.S. as of 2020. It can severely affect social and work life, mobility, and self-care, and an estimated 8.2% of individuals experience severe cases.