Reports of chronic lower back pain are on the increase in North Carolina – and researchers suggest the same trend could be taking place across the country.

Findings published in the Archives of Internal Medicine reveal the prevalence of chronic low back pain in the state rose from 3.9 percent to 10.2 percent between 1992 and 2006.

Lead researcher Dr. Timothy S. Carey of the University of North Carolina said this type of pain is the second most common cause of disability in the U.S.

“Considering the social and economic costs of chronic low back pain, these findings are alarming,” he commented.

The authors suggest a number of reasons that could be behind the increase in chronic low back pain, including rising obesity and more cases of depression.

They also propose that there may be more awareness of the condition and therefore people are increasingly seeking treatment.

There are a number of health resources and potential treatments available for those who suffer from back pain, including yoga, acupressure and chiropractic services.