Ellen DeGeneres, a beloved entertainer and talk show host, recently shared her experience of battling Covid-19. In a surprising revelation, Ellen mentioned that she suffered from excruciating back pain as a symptom of the virus. This caught many off guard, as back pain is not typically associated with Covid-19.
Despite the challenges she faced during her illness, Ellen remains committed to her causes. She recently completed the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in Rwanda, an animal conservation project that is very close to her heart.
Ellen’s update on her health came after she announced her positive test result for Covid-19 in December 2020. She diligently followed the recommended practices to manage her illness. Taking to social media, Ellen shared that she was feeling “100%” and revealed an aspect of the virus that is not commonly known to the general public.
As the host of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Ellen has been entertaining viewers for 19 successful seasons. With a mix of A-list celebrities, athletes, and musical performers, the show offers a nightly dose of entertainment that appeals to audiences of all ages. It also features human interest stories and topical skits that are sure to keep viewers engaged.
During one of the show’s episodes, Ellen took the opportunity to address an unexpected side effect of the global pandemic: back pain. She shared that she had experienced this discomfort herself and was surprised to find that many others had as well. The conversation led to some humorous banter with guest Billie Joe Armstrong, who jokingly remarked, “Who would have guessed?”
Back pain is not listed as an official symptom of Covid-19 by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). However, many individuals who contracted the virus reported experiencing aches and pains, including back discomfort, before falling sick. The inflammation caused by the virus can lead to muscle and joint pain, explaining the prevalence of back pain among Covid-19 patients.
The pandemic has also contributed to an increase in musculoskeletal ailments, with many people leading sedentary lives due to lockdowns and restrictions. The lack of physical activity weakens muscles and makes even simple tasks more challenging. Additionally, prolonged periods of sitting and limited social interaction have taken a toll on people’s overall well-being.
It is worth noting that while some individuals had chronic back pain prior to Covid-19, a significant number of people experienced back pain for the first time during the pandemic. Reports suggest that around 49% of individuals polled had never experienced back pain before, while 30% had. This sudden onset of back pain can be attributed to decreased physical activity and movement during quarantine.
The combination of back pain and other reported symptoms, such as stiffness and muscle weakness, has led to increased discomfort and the exacerbation of existing health conditions. It’s essential for individuals to prioritize their physical well-being by engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, even during these challenging times.
