Scientists have discovered a hormone that can stop chronic back pain at its source. It is a widely used bone hormone that helps relieve chronic back pain in an unexpected way. Instead of strengthening the bones, it stops the growth of pain-sensing nerves to the damaged areas of the spine. In animal models, this led to stronger spinal tissue. At the same time, there was a decrease in sensitivity to pain. A new study suggests a future treatment that addresses back pain at its biological roots.