BACTERIA AND BACK PAIN

Recent research by the University of Southern Denmark published in European Spine Journal reveals an interesting and previously unconsidered link between chronic back pain and bacterial infection.

It indicates that many cases of chronic back pain are caused by infection. Bacteria invade the injury site of slipped discs, causing inflammation and damage to surrounding vertebrae. Most infections are caused by the Propionbacterium acnes strain, which secrete an acid capable of dissolving bone.

The researchers estimate that bacteria may be responsible for 40% of chronic back pain cases. Antibiotics were effective in 80% of cases in this study.