NEW YORK — Pain can come in many forms, but a new poll has arrived at one unsettling conclusion: Nearly a third of Americans are in a constant state of pain. Three in 10 Americans say they haven’t had a pain-free day in more than a month, with 28 percent adding they feel some kind of pain every single day.
The survey of 2,000 Americans also revealed that nearly half of respondents suffer from chronic pain – whether diagnosed or not. Over a quarter (26%) who deal with chronic pain have dealt with it for 13 years or longer.
Conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Ancestral Supplements, the survey discovered that the average American started to feel aches and pains at age 37. The most common pains that pop up are in the legs (39%), neck (29%), and shoulders (29%). However, other respondents noted that their back was their biggest issue each day.
On average, on days when Americans wake up in pain, it takes them seven minutes longer to get ready in the morning. For answers to their chronic pain questions, respondents say they consult their doctors (75%), followed by nearly half the poll turning to “Dr. Google” for help (48%).
When asked what frustrates them the most about living with chronic pain, Americans say their biggest frustrations include not feeling 100 percent like themselves (43%), being more tired than they used to be (30%), pain causing constant sleep disruptions (28%), and having to give up certain activities they love (27%).
“Living with chronic pain isn’t just about the physical discomfort; it’s about all of the disruptions and inconveniences it brings to our daily lives,” says Chris Ricci, Chief Executive Officer at Ancestral Supplements, in a statement. “From struggling through morning routines to missing out on activities we love, such as spending time with family, and even compromising our careers at work, which affects our livelihood, the impact is felt in all aspects of our lives. Our research sheds light on these struggles, emphasizing the urgent need for effective solutions.”
To never experience aches or pains again, Americans would be willing to trade in some of their greatest loves. A quarter (25%) would give up coffee! Meanwhile, others are willing to part ways with social media (22%) and even cheese (18%) in order to finally wake up without their aches and pains.
The survey reveals that Americans are also willing to pay an average of $1,800 just to get answers on why they are feeling this way. To ease their daily ailments, many people turn to heating pads (39%), exercise (33%), and various supplements that don’t include their daily vitamins (25%). When it comes to taking supplements specifically for pain, iron (19%), fish oil (17%), turmeric (16%), and colostrum (10%) top the list.
In the end, 80 percent of those respondents with chronic pain are still looking for a fix to the problem, and 78 percent of them are more likely to try natural remedies before opting for surgery.
“Prevention is key to maintaining overall well-being. As our bodies age, vitality becomes increasingly important,” Ricci says. “Fortunately, there are natural and simple solutions available to support our bodies in this journey. By taking proactive measures, we can mitigate the effects of daily aches and pains, promoting a healthier, happier life. As the saying goes, ‘Health is wealth,’ and we embrace that.”
Survey methodology:
This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans was commissioned by Ancestral Supplements between April 12 and April 17, 2024. It was conducted by market research company Talker Research, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).