Study Links Low Vitamin D Levels to Increased Risk of Chronic Low Back Pain

Low levels of Vitamin D, often called the "sunshine vitamin," are increasingly recognized as a major contributor to global disability and have been linked to conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, migraines, and musculoskeletal disorders. A recent study from India now suggests a possible association between vitamin D deficiency and Chronic Low Back Pain.

Researchers at Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy Hospital analyzed blood samples from 75 adults suffering from chronic low back pain. The findings revealed a striking prevalence of hypovitaminosis D: approximately 69.3% of participants had deficient vitamin D levels, while the remaining individuals had insufficient levels. Notably, none of the patients had adequate vitamin D levels.

Despite India’s abundant sunlight, vitamin D deficiency remains widespread, affecting an estimated 50% to 95% of the population. Factors such as darker skin pigmentation, limited outdoor activity, poor dietary intake, and increasingly sedentary indoor lifestyles contribute to this paradox. Socioeconomic disparities also play a significant role, with individuals from lower-income groups more likely to have inadequate vitamin D levels due to reduced access to nutritious foods, healthcare, and sunlight exposure.

While the study identified a strong association between vitamin D deficiency and chronic back pain, it did not establish a direct causal relationship. Pain severity and disability levels were similar across deficient and insufficient groups, as well as between genders.

Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and inflammation control. In addition to sunlight exposure, dietary sources such as oily fish and eggs can help improve levels. The findings highlight the need for greater awareness and targeted interventions to address widespread deficiency.

REFERENCE: Ali S, Ghosh S, Purkayastha T, et al. (March 17, 2026) Relationship Between Vitamin D Status, Pain Severity, and Functional Disability in Chronic Low Back Pain. Cureus 18(3): e105376. doi:10.7759/cureus.105376