When Ellen DeGeneres shared her experience with COVID-19, she surprised fans by revealing an unexpected symptom: severe back pain. While the world has become familiar with COVID symptoms like fever, cough, and loss of taste or smell, back pain isn’t something that initially comes to mind. Ellen’s story sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of the virus’s impact and highlights how symptoms can vary widely from one person to the next. Let’s explore why back pain might be linked to COVID-19 and what experts have to say about it.

The Unexpected Symptom: How Ellen DeGeneres Discovered Back Pain as a COVID Symptom

When Ellen contracted COVID-19, like many others, she anticipated the classic symptoms: fever, fatigue, perhaps a bit of a sore throat. However, she wasn’t prepared for the “excruciating” back pain she experienced. In an interview, Ellen shared that she “had no idea” that COVID could cause such severe discomfort. It wasn’t until she spoke with others who had also battled the virus that she realized back pain was, in fact, something many COVID patients reported.

This revelation left many wondering—why would a respiratory virus cause back pain? The answer lies in the way COVID affects the entire body, not just the lungs.

Why COVID-19 Can Cause Back Pain: An In-Depth Look

Back pain, as it turns out, can be a side effect of the body’s immune response to COVID-19. Here’s how it happens:

1. Inflammatory Response
   COVID-19 triggers a strong immune response, which can lead to inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation affects not only the lungs but also muscles and joints, which may contribute to the severe muscle aches and pains often associated with the virus. Back pain may stem from this inflammation as it impacts the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine.
2. Prolonged Inactivity
   Another factor influencing back pain in COVID-19 patients is reduced mobility. When people fall ill, they tend to rest more, which leads to prolonged periods of inactivity. This lack of movement can cause stiffness and muscle weakness, making back pain even more likely. Additionally, the pandemic has shifted many people into a sedentary lifestyle as they work from home, compounding the issue.
3. Muscle Weakness and Strain
   For those who are bedridden due to COVID-19, muscles can weaken, leading to further pain when they start moving again. Decreased muscle strength can strain the back and lead to pain that persists long after other symptoms have disappeared.

What Medical Experts Say About COVID-Related Back Pain

At the start of the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) did not list back pain as a common COVID symptom. As cases mounted, however, it became evident that COVID affects the body in unpredictable ways. The NHS later confirmed that patients who contracted COVID often reported muscle aches and joint pain, including back pain.

According to the NHS, people who already experience chronic pain may find that COVID worsens these issues, as the virus can intensify existing conditions. This is especially true for those who were already dealing with back issues before contracting the virus.

Studies on the Rise of Back Pain During COVID-19

The prevalence of back pain during the pandemic wasn’t limited to COVID patients alone. A study conducted on 388 people in Malta found a significant increase in back pain complaints after COVID’s emergence. Prior to the pandemic, around 30% of people reported chronic back pain. After COVID hit, this figure rose to 49%, with many individuals experiencing back pain for the first time. This increase suggests that both COVID infection and lifestyle changes due to lockdowns played a role in the spike.

The Work-from-Home Connection: How Remote Work Increased Back Pain

With more people working from home, sitting in front of screens for hours on end, cases of back pain soared. Most home setups lack ergonomic office furniture, which strains the back, neck, and shoulders. Combined with the stress of dealing with a pandemic and limited movement, it’s no wonder that back pain has become more common.

Not only that, but restrictions on social activities and outdoor exercise meant that people were more sedentary than usual. Without regular movement to keep muscles active and healthy, back pain has become a common complaint among those working remotely.

Could It Be Something Else? When Back Pain Isn’t COVID-Related

While back pain can indeed be a symptom of COVID-19, it’s crucial to remember that other conditions can cause it, too. Common illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia may lead to similar discomfort due to inflammation in the body. Symptoms that accompany these conditions, like a fever or cough, can also make muscles ache.

For those suffering from severe back pain, the cause could be something entirely unrelated to COVID. Back pain may be associated with more typical issues like:

• Muscle Strain: Overusing or straining back muscles can lead to pain, especially after intense physical activity.
• Herniated Discs: This condition occurs when the discs in the spine push out of place, pressing on nerves and causing pain.
• Arthritis: Joint inflammation is a common source of chronic back pain.

It’s important to consider these factors, especially if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms like numbness, shooting pain, or difficulty moving.

What to Do If You’re Experiencing Back Pain After COVID-19

If you’ve had COVID-19 and are dealing with lingering back pain, there are ways to manage it:

1. Stay Active
   Gentle stretches, walks, and low-impact exercises can help strengthen muscles and alleviate pain. Being mindful of your body’s limits is essential, so start slowly and increase activity as your strength returns.
2. Use Heat and Cold Therapy
   Applying heat or cold packs to sore areas can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Alternate between the two for best results.
3. See a Physical Therapist
   A physical therapist can help develop an exercise program tailored to your needs, focusing on strengthening your back and improving flexibility.
4. Maintain Proper Posture
   If you’re working from home, invest in an ergonomic chair and keep your screen at eye level. Taking breaks to stretch every hour can also help prevent stiffness and pain.

Conclusion: Understanding the Link Between COVID-19 and Back Pain

Ellen DeGeneres’ story brought attention to a lesser-known COVID symptom: back pain. Although back pain wasn’t initially listed as a common symptom, it’s now recognized as something many COVID patients experience. Whether due to inflammation, muscle strain, or a sedentary lifestyle, back pain has become a pandemic-era complaint. By understanding the causes and managing symptoms through exercise and proper care, you can take steps to alleviate this discomfort and regain your health. Listen to your body and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist. Taking action early can help you return to a pain-free life.