Chronic low back pain frequently affects people in their prime working years and, as a result, it is the single largest cause of lost work days and lost income. It also accounts for more than 25 percent of all workers' compensation claims, with a great cost to society. Additionally, while studies show that many sufferers do not seek medical attention, chronic low back pain remains a primary reason for hospital and physician office visits. The symptoms of chronic low back pain are varied, making a precise diagnosis often difficult. Low back pain is considered chronic if it persists for more than three months.
Many people have a limited range of motion or tender areas.
In addition to the actual back pain, some people may experience fever or weight loss, which can indicate illness or infection. Psychological symptoms also may occur. Depression has been shown to be three to four times as prevalent in patients with chronic back pain as in the general population. Chronic low back pain can be shooting, stabbing, localized in nature, or referred from another part of the body. They may experience this pain only when walking, sitting or standing, each action suggesting a specific root cause.