Ferdinand Reveals Back Pain Can Leave Him Unable to Walk
Rio Ferdinand
January 2026
Ferdinand says chronic back issues from his playing career can flare up suddenly and become so severe he needs hospital treatment and sometimes a wheelchair. He describes years of medication and injections during his career as contributing to ongoing problems. He says he has started regular physiotherapy and a more joined-up training approach, sharing information between physio and trainer to reduce flare-ups. He also frames staying active as important for family example-setting and his own mental balance.