Psychological Factors - Who Develops Back Problems: Back Pain

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Psychological factors

A growing body of evidence shows that our emotions and psychological well-being have a significant influence on our physical health. It is probably not surprising, therefore, to learn that psychological factors also affect the back. Although study populations and methods vary, in general the research has shown that psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and negative mood and emotions (such as "catastrophizing" an event rather than taking it in stride) all increase the likelihood of developing acute or chronic back pain. Such psychological factors seem to be especially important in determining whether an acute bout of back pain will become a more chronic problem. One review of studies that examined psychological factors and back pain, for example, found that people who were distressed or depressed were more likely to develop chronic back pain than other people.

The reasons for this are not completely understood, but probably involve two mechanisms. The first is behavioral. A person suffering from acute low back pain may start to limit movement in order to avoid triggering additional pain. Yet such guarded movements promote an unnatural stiffness and inactivity that, in turn, ultimately worsen the situation. Second, symptoms of chronic pain and depression share some of the same biochemical roots. The neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, for example, not only are involved in mood disorders such as depression but also are important in producing the sensation of pain.

Fortunately, this dynamic can also be reversed: By changing the behaviors and addressing the emotions that may aggravate and worsen the situation, it is often possible to alleviate low back pain and prevent it from becoming chronic.

Last updated:	January 23, 2007