Chronic Lower Back Pain Market Assessment, By Drug Class [Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs, Antidepressants, Analgesics, Opioids, Others], By Route of Administration [Oral, Topical, Others], By End-user [Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online

Chronic Lower Back Pain Market Assessment, By Drug Class [Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs, Antidepressants, Analgesics, Opioids, Others], By Route of Administration [Oral, Topical, Others], By End-user [Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031F

Global chronic lower back pain market is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.22% during the forecast period 2024-2031F, growing from USD 8.02 billion in 2023 to USD 12.99 billion in 2031F. The chronic lower back pain market is anticipated to expand under the impact of driving factors such as the growing prevalence of chronic lower back pain, increasing aging population, sedentary lifestyle, rising prevalence of obesity, advancements in pain management solutions, and increased health consciousness. With the growing corporate industry, people are compelled to remain seated for long working hours, which is the main reason behind many such cases.

Another major factor contributing to its rising prevalence is the increasing geriatric population at higher risk of bodily wear and tear. Chronic pain management is mainly done through drug classes like NSAIDs, analgesics, and opioids, either through oral or topical administration. The advancements in the pharmaceutical industry and increased value share of pain management drugs in recent years are evidence for market expansion.

The major challenge for the expansion of the chronic lower back pain market is the side effects associated with pain management drugs. The increasing popularity of alternative pain management techniques like physical therapies (heat or cold packs, massage, hydrotherapy, and exercise) and psychological therapies (cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and meditation) is a restraining factor for the market. Additionally, stringent regulations regarding the use and prescription of painkiller medicines are a challenge for market expansion. Despite these factors, the market is growing at a faster pace.

In May 2023, Abbott announced that it received the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its spinal cord stimulation (SCS) devices meant for the treatment of chronic back pain in people not eligible to receive back surgery, called non-surgical back pain. The approval was given based on the result of the study, which demonstrated that Abbott's proprietary BurstDR SCS technology improved pain levels, and the ability to perform daily activities along with emotional well-being in people with chronic back pain.

Growing Prevalence of Lower Back Pain

The chronic lower back pain market is expected to expand due to the increasing prevalence of spinal disorders and back pain cases. The older population is at a higher risk for spinal disorders due to the natural wear and tear of the spine that comes with aging. It is predicted to result in a significant rise in the number of cases of spinal disorders. Additional factors such as obesity, prolonged periods of sitting for working professionals, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and a high frequency of accidents resulting in back pain are expected to contribute to a high incidence of lower back pain. Inherited disorders, inflammations, and infections that damage the spine and tissues in the back are contributing to the growth in the prevalence of lower back pain.

World Spine Care estimated that approximately 1 billion people worldwide suffer from spine pain. Every year, about 72% of the global population is expected to experience back pain, while at any given time, around 59% of people are identified with back pain. Lower back pain is the main cause of disability, and neck pain ranks fourth in the global disability list, as estimated by World Spine Care.

Growing Emphasis on Development of Novel Drugs for Pain Management

The development of novel drugs for pain management has been a growing focus in the medical field. Researchers and pharmaceutical companies are increasingly emphasizing the identification and development of innovative drug targets and delivery systems to improve pain relief. It includes targeting specific receptors, ion channels, or signaling pathways involved in pain transmission and modulation. Additionally, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems have been explored by manufacturers to enhance the efficacy of analgesic drugs and limit their side effects. Despite the presence of several drugs in the market, the quest for more suitable and safer options to manage lower back pain is further expanding the scope of the market.

For instance, in August 2023, Kenvue Inc. announced the showcasing of its two new products at the PAINWeek Conference 2023. The first product is a topical cream called Tylenol Precise Pain-Relieving Cream which will be launched in the United States first. The second product, which was launched earlier, is called Motrin Dual Action with Tylenol. It is a fixed combination pill containing 250 mg of acetaminophen and 125 mg of ibuprofen in each tablet. The pill provides a dose that supports up to 8 hours of pain relief, which is longer than the dosing provided by Tylenol Extra Strength or Motrin1 single ingredient products that can provide up to 6 hours of relief.

Dominance of Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs Segment

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) segment is anticipated to dominate the market owing to its widespread efficacy and popularity. NSAIDs are considered equally effective for musculoskeletal pain, including back pain, and are available over the counter or by prescription. These drugs offer easy accessibility and long-term pain relief and, thus are most commonly prescribed by physicians for treating lower back pain. The low cost of NSAIDs is another factor contributing to its popularity as a pain management solution.

For instance, as per an article in the Journal of Orthopedic Research in February 2023, the research findings provided evidence that the combination of muscle relaxants and NSAIDs (paracetamol) was effective in reducing pain and disability in lower back pain at approximately one week.

Oral Route of Administration to be the Dominating Segment

The oral route of administration for chronic lower back pain is anticipated to be the dominating segment owing to the widespread adoption of oral formulations and the advantages associated with it. The oral route of administration offers improved patient compliance, optimum bioavailability, safety, and low-cost access to medications. From the manufacturer's point of view, oral formulations are easy to prepare and dispense and offer a greater margin of safety, thus, it’s preferred by them. Most of the pain management drugs available in the market are in the form of oral formulations such as tablets, capsules, and others. Oral opioids, such as morphine, hydromorphone, hydrocodone, and oxycodone, can be used for acute or chronic pain.

North America to Dominate the Market

North America is expected to dominate the chronic lower back pain market, owing to the high prevalence of lower back pain cases in countries like the United States and Canada. The high prevalence of lower back pain can be explained by a sedentary lifestyle, high incidence of obesity, unhealthy food habits, and much more. Along with these factors, the strong pharmaceutical infrastructure and high pharmaceutical expenditures strengthen the lead of North American region.

Furthermore, the presence of major key players in the region and the high cost of medications contribute to high-value share. For instance, as per the Health Policy Institute, Washington, almost 65 million Americans have experienced back pain. Out of these, 16 million adults, which is 8 percent of all adults, suffer from persistent or chronic back pain, and the condition limits certain everyday activities. Additionally, back pain is the sixth most expensive condition in the United States, with healthcare and indirect costs amounting to over USD 12 billion each year.

Future Market Scenario (2024 – 2031F)

The management of chronic lower back pain is undergoing a progressive shift towards more personalized and effective treatments. Researchers are focusing on developing targeted approaches, such as the Biomarkers for Evaluating Spine Treatments (BEST) trial, which aim to use individual biomarkers to guide treatment decisions. Promising new therapies, such as tanezumab, which is a monoclonal antibody capable of inhibiting nerve activity, are showing relief for patients with chronic lower back pain. While in the experimental stage, gene therapy is being explored as a potential method to reverse persistent conditions.

Non-opioid alternatives, such as drugs that inhibit proteins in the bloodstream that heighten the sensitivity of cells in the nervous system to pain, are being developed. Exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy have been proven effective in managing chronic lower back pain. New medications will likely take several years to become available, and their safety and efficacy will need to be thoroughly tested before they can be widely adopted.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The key players in the chronic lower back pain market include Pfizer Inc., Vertebral Technologies, Inc., Merck & Co., Medtronic plc, Boston Scientific Corporation, and many more players. These players have diverse product portfolios, and a focus on R&D initiatives. Other prominent players include Novartis AG, and Atherna Biosciences. The market is expected to be driven by the increasing aging population with age-related disorders, rising healthcare awareness, and increasing disposable income of consumers. The market is expected to be hampered by the side effects of treatments and the availability of counterfeit drugs.

In September 2023, Boston Scientific offered USD 850 million to acquire back pain ablation tech maker Relievant Medsystems, which is a Minnesota-based provider of an ablation system to treat chronic lower back pain.