One small study in Malta involving 388 participants found that while around 30% had chronic back discomfort before the pandemic, nearly half reported new or worsening symptoms after recovering from COVID-19. However, health experts are careful to point out that back pain can result from a variety of causes—including flu, poor posture, or prolonged periods of sitting during remote work—and isn’t necessarily linked to any one condition.
After stepping away from the spotlight, Ellen has turned her focus toward animal conservation, including her work on the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in Rwanda. Still, her reflections on her health during the pandemic have resonated with many.
Her experience is a reminder that listening to your body is important—and that sometimes symptoms can appear in ways we don’t expect.