Lifetime Prevalence of Nonspecific Low Back Pain in Adolescents: A Cross-sectional Epidemiologic Survey

Background Many nonconclusive studies have been conducted on low back pain (LBP) in adolescents and associated factors. Objective The aim was to assess the lifetime prevalence and associated factors of LBP in adolescents. Materials and Methods A questionnaire was administered in high school students (14–19-yr-old participants) in Veneto region (Italy). The self-administered, structured questionnaire included anthropometric data; psychologic factors and lifestyle; presence, intensity, and family history of LBP; referral to professional health care for LBP; and a short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Results A total of 6281 adolescents were recruited; 5204 questionnaires were included in the final analysis. A total of 2549 (48.98%) students reported one or more LBP episodes and 723 (13.89%) reported nonspecific disabling lumbar pain (i.e., no underlying pathology); 1040 (41.11%) subjects with LBP consulted a healthcare professional. A significant association emerged for LBP with sex (female), positive family history, time spent sitting or using electronic devices, sleep deprivation (
Source: American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation - Category: Rehabilitation Tags: Original Research Articles Source Type: research