How Do Children Experience Back Pain Compared to Adults?

Back pain is often considered an issue for adults, but research shows that children and adolescents are also significantly affected. While their experience shares similarities with adults, there are key differences in prevalence, causes, and long-term impact.
 
Prevalence and First Occurrences
 
Studies indicate that about 50% of children will experience low back pain at some point, with 15% having frequent or persistent pain. First episodes commonly occur between 12-14 years old, and the likelihood increases with age. In contrast, adults have a higher annual prevalence (38%) compared to children (17.4%).(1-3)
 
Causes and Risk Factors
 
For children, back pain often arises from:
•           Sports-related injuries—Activities like gymnastics, wrestling, football, and dancing involve                     repeated spinal movements that increase risk.
•           Growth spurts—Periods of rapid growth can make the spine more vulnerable to stress.
•           Psychosocial factors—Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to back pain.
•           Lifestyle habits—Obesity and smoking are linked to a higher risk of pain.
 
Adults, however, experience back pain more frequently due to postural issues, degeneration, and disc problems. While children’s pain is often mechanical and injury-related, adults are more prone to chronic and degenerative conditions.
 
Activity Response and Chronic Pain Risk
 
A key difference is how children and adults respond to pain. Adults tend to reduce activity, which can lead to deconditioning and poor core strength, worsening the issue. Adolescents, however, are more likely to continue their activities, sometimes pushing through pain. Unfortunately, experiencing back pain as a teenager increases the likelihood of chronic pain in adulthood.(4)
 
Short summary
 
While children and adults share some common experiences with back pain, the underlying causes and long-term effects differ. Understanding these differences can help with early intervention and better management, reducing the risk of chronic pain in adulthood. Have a chat to one of our chiropractors to see how we can help manage your or your children’s symptoms

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References

1.         Hayden JA, Mior SA, Verhoef MJ. Evaluation of chiropractic management of pediatric patients with low back pain: a prospective cohort study. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics. 2003;26(1):1-8.
2.         Kordi R, Rostami M. Low back pain in children and adolescents: an algorithmic clinical approach. Iranian Journal of Pediatrics. 2011;21(3):259.
3.         Hooten WM, Cohen SP, editors. Evaluation and treatment of low back pain: a clinically focused review for primary care specialists. Mayo clinic proceedings; 2015: Elsevier.
4.         Selhorst M, Selhorst B. Lumbar manipulation and exercise for the treatment of acute low back pain in adolescents: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy. 2015;23(4):226-33.