MSK Clinic

Back Pain Surgery in Older People How Common is Back Pain in Older People? Back pain is very common in older adults. Studies show that between 21% and 75% of older people experience back pain at some point. On average, 1 in 2 older adults has had at least one episode of back pain or is currently dealing with it. What Causes Back Pain? Back pain in older adults is often due to wear and tear on the spine. Over time, the structures in the back—such as ligaments, cartilage, and discs —can break down. Normally, these structures help cushion the bones and prevent them from rubbing against each other. When they deteriorate, it can lead to arthritis and pain . Other common causes include: Fractures: Small, unnoticed fractures in the spine can develop over time, leading to pain. These fractures often happen due to osteoporosis , a condition where bones become weak due to calcium loss. Falls: A fall can injure muscles, cause spasms, or even result in tiny or larger fractures in th...