To describe the epidemiologic characteristics and associations with increased health care utilization in US adults with chronic low back pain (LBP).
The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009-2010 was administered to adults ages 20-69 years (n = 5,103). Chronic LBP was defined as pain in the area between the lower posterior margin of the rib cage and the horizontal gluteal fold, with a history of pain lasting almost every day for at least 3 months. Demographic and behavioral characteristics were compared between those with chronic LBP and those without. Factors associated with ≥10 health care visits per year were evaluated in the chronic LBP subgroup (n = 700).
Chronic LBP associations with adjusted odds ratios (OR
US adults with chronic LBP are socioeconomically disadvantaged, make frequent health care visits, and are often covered by government-sponsored health insurance. The clustering of behavioral, psychosocial, and medical issues should be considered in the care of Americans with chronic LBP.