Studies show that teens whose primary caregiver (parent or other adult) has back pain are likely to have back pain, too. This is called familial back pain. The cause remains unknown. There could be a genetic predisposition to back pain. If this is true, there may be specific factors that trigger the first episode.
There may be other family factors involved, too. Influences on children include the parent(s)’ response to back pain, use of medications, and seeking medical treatment. If both parents (or caregivers) have back pain, the chances of the child developing back pain increase.
Some social scientists think that parent-child back pain is a sign of family distress. Instead of focusing on the real problems, the family pays attention to the physical distress of its members.
Other behavioral factors may be a part of the overall picture. For example, parents who smoke and who are physically inactive may suffer from more back pain than active adults who don’t smoke. Children of smokers are much more likely to have back pain when compared with children of nonsmokers.
Studies are underway to help sort out all the various factors. If scientists can identify modifiable risk factors, then prevention plans can be developed. Modifiable risk factors can be changed — usually by a change in behavior. This may be a change in diet, activity level, or other lifestyle choice.