The coronavirus pandemic of 2020 profoundly reshaped daily life across the globe. With widespread uncertainty and fear, staying optimistic seemed like the only way to maintain mental health amid the chaos. Businesses shuttered, jobs were lost, and countless people struggled to make ends meet. While the virus is no longer as rampant as it was during its peak, it remains a persistent presence. Moreover, many individuals who contracted COVID-19 continue to face lingering symptoms, underscoring the long-term impact of the disease.

Among the more commonly recognized long-term effects are respiratory issues, including lung problems and difficulty breathing. However, as time has passed, medical professionals have identified other lingering symptoms, some of which were not initially associated with the virus. One of these is severe back pain—a condition that was not widely acknowledged at the start of the pandemic but has since been linked to COVID-19 by both patients and doctors.

One of the notable figures to experience severe back pain after contracting COVID-19 is Ellen DeGeneres. Known for her role as the host of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Ellen entertained millions for nearly 19 years before deciding to end the show in 2022. Reflecting on her decision, Ellen said, “I truly have felt like next season was the right time to bring it to a close. The truth is, I always trust my instincts. My instinct told me it’s time.”

Ellen contracted COVID-19 in December 2020 despite adhering to “proper precautions.” At the time, she assured her audience that she was feeling “100%” recovered but soon opened up about a surprising and painful symptom that had not been widely discussed: severe back pain. During an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! alongside Billie Joe Armstrong and musical guests Jimmie Allen and Brad Paisley, Ellen shared her experience, revealing how the virus affected her in unexpected ways.

“I feel fantastic now,” Ellen said during the interview, “but what they don’t tell you is that you will have severe back pain. I had no notion that was a symptom until I spoke with a few other people.” She expressed her disbelief, adding, “Who would have thought? How so? I’m having back pain.”

At the start of the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) did not formally include back pain as a symptom of COVID-19. The agency’s official list of symptoms included fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While the CDC did mention “muscle or bodily aches,” the specific mention of severe back pain was absent. As the pandemic progressed, however, reports from patients who experienced intense back and muscle pain began to surface, prompting medical experts to take a closer look.

According to the NHS website, many individuals who became ill with COVID-19 had a history of aches and pains before contracting the virus. The illness may have resurfaced or exacerbated these pre-existing conditions, leading to increased discomfort. For some, COVID-19 introduced entirely new forms of pain, including debilitating backaches.

Fortunately for Ellen, her recovery was swift, and she was able to move past the discomfort relatively quickly. Her openness about this experience, however, has helped shed light on a symptom that many may not have initially associated with the virus. By sharing her story, Ellen has contributed to a growing understanding of COVID-19’s wide-ranging effects and underscored the importance of recognizing symptoms that might otherwise go unnoticed.

As more individuals share their experiences with lingering symptoms like severe back pain, the medical community continues to expand its knowledge of the virus and its long-term impact. This evolving understanding highlights the importance of ongoing research and patient advocacy. Ellen’s story serves as a reminder that recovery from COVID-19 can be multifaceted, involving physical, emotional, and mental health challenges.

Her candidness also emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking medical advice when symptoms arise. COVID-19’s varied effects mean that no two experiences are exactly alike, and staying vigilant is key to addressing any lingering health issues.

As we continue to navigate the aftermath of the pandemic, Ellen’s experience highlights the value of community and shared knowledge. Her journey not only brings awareness to a lesser-known symptom of COVID-19 but also inspires others to prioritize their well-being and advocate for their health.

If you or someone you know is experiencing unexpected symptoms after contracting COVID-19, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider. Awareness and understanding are essential in managing the long-term effects of this complex virus.

Please share this article with your friends and family on Facebook to spread awareness about this surprising symptom and encourage others to stay informed. Ellen’s story is a powerful reminder that even after recovery, paying attention to your health remains critically important.