Quantitative Global Survey Results of Acute Back Pain Sufferers Across Four Countries

BACKGROUND: Surveys of back pain sufferers in the United States, China, Russia, and Germany were performed to better understand self-reported causes of acute nonspecific back pain and acute lower back pain among individuals engaging in sports and their preferred treatments. METHODS: In each country, 1000 participants were surveyed (Step 1) to identify a population of nonspecific acute back pain sufferers, understand pain and treatment characteristics, and generate profiles for individuals with long-lasting (≥7 days) acute lower back pain. Subsequently, 200 participants with acute lower back pain episodes (7–21 days) and sports participation were identified in each country and completed surveys (Step 2) about sociodemographic, pain, treatment characteristics, and causes/triggers of long-lasting acute lower back pain episodes. RESULTS: In the United States, China, Russia, and Germany, respectively, 59%, 49%, 61%, and 63% of respondents reported ≥1 episode of nonspecific acute back pain in the previous 6 months. Average numbers of monthly nonspecific acute back pain episodes in the United States, Russia, Germany, and China were 2.5, 1.8, 1.3, and 0.8, respectively. Prevalence of acute lower back pain associated with sports/leisure activities ranged from 20% (Russia and Germany) to 46% (China). Onset of long-lasting acute lower back pain was between ages 30 and 33 years, limiting usual activities and reducing walking distance in 60% to 85% of respondents across all countries. Acute lower back pain started post-exercise within the first day for ≥75% of respondents. Most popular nonprescription and prescription treatments for acute lower back pain were creams/gels in Russia, creams/gels and oral painkillers in Germany, oral painkillers in the United States, and hot/cold patches in China. CONCLUSION: These results help to better understand acute back pain triggers, features, and treatment preferences among sports participants in different countries. Further research is warranted to develop preventative strategies. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.