COVID-19 is recognized as a respiratory illness, but its effects can extend throughout the body, leading to a variety of symptoms. Among these, body aches and back pain are frequently reported by individuals who have contracted the virus. This article explores the connection between a COVID-19 infection and the onset of back pain, its causes, common characteristics, and strategies for managing the discomfort.
The Link Between COVID-19 and Back Pain
Health organizations acknowledge muscle pain, or myalgia, as a common symptom of COVID-19, which frequently includes back pain. With variants like Omicron, back pain became a more prominent symptom, with some data suggesting approximately one in five people with the variant experience it. One study found that musculoskeletal symptoms occurred in 36% of COVID-19 cases, while another analysis found that of those who reported pain, 43.6% specifically identified back pain. This confirms that back pain is a recognized part of the disease’s clinical picture.
Primary Causes of Pain
The back pain associated with COVID-19 stems from the body’s response to the virus. A primary cause is the inflammatory response triggered by the infection. When the immune system fights the SARS-CoV-2 virus, it releases a surge of inflammatory molecules known as cytokines. This “cytokine storm” can lead to widespread inflammation, causing the muscle aches of myalgia, which are often felt in the large muscle groups of the back.
The cytokines, particularly molecules like interleukin-6, directly contribute to the sensation of pain. Furthermore, the virus itself can enter and potentially damage skeletal muscle tissue, as the receptors it uses for entry (ACE2 receptors) are found in these muscles. This direct viral impact, combined with the body’s inflammatory reaction, creates a foundation for the deep and persistent aches that many individuals experience in their upper and lower back.
Indirectly, other symptoms contribute to back pain. A persistent and forceful cough can physically strain the muscles and joints of the upper back and chest. Additionally, the fatigue and general malaise associated with the illness often lead to prolonged periods of bed rest and inactivity. This immobilization can cause muscle stiffness, deconditioning, and atrophy, particularly in the core and back muscles, exacerbating aches and discomfort.
Characteristics of COVID-Related Back Pain
The back pain that accompanies a COVID-19 infection often presents differently from typical mechanical back pain, such as that from a muscle strain. Individuals frequently describe it as a more generalized, deep, and diffuse ache rather than a sharp, stabbing pain localized to a specific spot. This discomfort can affect the entire back, from the upper region between the shoulder blades to the lower back, and has been compared to the body aches experienced with other viral illnesses like the flu.
A defining characteristic that helps distinguish COVID-related back pain is its association with other systemic symptoms. The back pain is almost always accompanied by other COVID-19 symptoms like fever, fatigue, headache, sore throat, or respiratory issues such as a cough or shortness of breath. This combination of widespread muscle aches with other signs of a viral illness is a strong indicator that the back pain is linked to the body’s systemic response to the virus rather than a simple musculoskeletal injury.
Managing Symptoms and Recovery Timeline
For most individuals, back pain associated with an acute COVID-19 infection can be managed at home with supportive care. Gentle activities and light stretching can help maintain mobility and prevent the muscles from becoming overly stiff from inactivity. Applying heat to the back may also provide relief by increasing blood circulation and reducing stiffness. Staying hydrated and getting adequate rest allows the body to fight the infection effectively.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or other analgesics like acetaminophen, may help reduce pain and inflammation. It is important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medication to ensure it is safe for your specific health situation. These at-home strategies are aimed at providing comfort while the body recovers from the acute phase of the illness.
The duration of COVID-related back pain aligns with the course of the infection, subsiding as other symptoms resolve. For many, the pain lessens within a couple of weeks. However, for some individuals, the back pain can persist for weeks or even months after the initial infection has passed, becoming a symptom of long COVID. This persistent pain may require a more structured approach, potentially involving physiotherapy to strengthen weakened back muscles.
It is necessary to know when to seek professional medical attention. If the back pain is severe, progressively worsens, or is accompanied by “red flag” symptoms, you should contact a healthcare provider immediately. These warning signs include:
- Numbness, weakness, or tingling in the legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain that worsens when lying down or disrupts sleep
These could indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt medical evaluation.