Objectives - To describe the relationship between disabling low back pain and socioeconomic status in France. Methods - The data used were from the 1999 HID national household survey for the 30–64 age group and from the longitudinal follow-up conducted in 2001; the category “disabling low back pain” was constructed based on the subjects’ explicit responses. Results - Subjects suffering from disabling low back pain are relatively more numerous in the blue-collar categories; a link with social status during childhood is also observed. Despite the limitations they face, a large majority of those with low back pain are employed, with blue-collar occupations being overrepresented among the employed. Socially adverse events, such as job loss, are more frequent among those with low back pain than in the general French population. Discussion-Conclusion - The results document inequalities occurring throughout life, from childhood through adulthood, both before the onset of the condition and in its consequences once it has developed. Useful interventions to reduce inequalities can be identified, particularly early prevention in the workplace and support to help workers with limitations remain employed. (R.A.)