Back pain is one of the most common conditions for patients to seek treatment from a physician, but since the start of the pandemic, physicians have been seeing an increase in patients with back pain.
While physicians are still understanding the full effects of COVID-19, prolonged back pain has been a sign of the longterm impacts of the virus. People who have COVID-19 may experience muscle inflammation, and thus pain and aches because of the body's inflammatory response.
Back pain related to COVID-19 often feels different from back pain from overexertion. The pain is often felt for weeks following the virus.
Physicians are also noticing patients with back pain related to changes in their working conditions. With more patients working from home, more people have changed their daily habits. Many patients are developing muscular strain or herniations from poorly supported chairs and couches while working long hours from home.
Working from home is also contributing to changes in physical routines often with lower levels of activity. People who used to walk during lunch with co-workers or stop at the gym after work may no longer be participating in these activities.
Patients who have developed back pain whether from COVID-19 or work related changes should speak with their provider to determine the root cause of the inflammation and pain, along with treatment options.
It is important to remember, COVID-19 and its longterm impacts on patients is still evolving. Any unusual or new symptoms should always be discussed with your provider.
If you are working from home and notice more back pain than usual you can use the following tools:
