Frequency of Lower Back Pain among Middle-Aged Women in Twin Cities; A Cross Sectional Study

DOI: 10.5455/JRCRS. 202008SI04

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of lower back pain in 40 to 60 years old women. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2019 in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. 370 middle age women between 40 to 60 years were included, using non-probability convenient sampling technique. Scales used were ‘NPRS’ scale for the proper scaling of Pain intensity, ‘Oswestry Lower Back disability questionnaire’ to evaluate lower back pain disability level, and selfStructured questionnaire was used for determination of demographic. Subjects were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, with the consent of the participants. Data was analyzed by using SPSS v.21.0. Results: The mean age of participants was 52 ±8.48 years, the frequency of lower back pain in middle age women is 69% (n=212) in twin cities. On analysis, the study found that 84% (n=310) of women had some form of back pain. Intensity at the lower back was mild to moderate on NPRS (1-5), 78.3% (n=166), and moderate to severe on NPRS (6-10) was 21.7%(n=46). Participants explained the nature of pain as ‘Localized’ and ‘Radiating’, 66% (n=139), and 34% (n=72) respectively. According to Oswestry’s interpretation, 49% (n=104) of women had a minimal disability and 29% (n=62) had moderate disability, 12% (n=26) had Severe disability and 7% (n=16)were crippled. Conclusion: Significant number of middle-aged women have lower back pain with noticeable intensity and disability rates. This prevalence is an alarming sign for our society needing timely public health action.