Association of occupational - related factors and mechanical low back pain

Date of Completion

2010

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy

Keywords

Back Pain, Occupational Diseases

Abstract

This is a case-control study which aims to determine the magnitude of association between occupational - related risk factors and Mechanical Low Back Pain (MLBP). Specifically, it determines the prevalnce of Mechanical Low Back Pain among patients at De La Salle University Medical Center (DLSUMC), Dasmariñas, Cavite, the socio-demographic profile of the subjects as to age and gender, the occupational profile of the subjects as to the nature of work, number of working hours in a day, number of working days in a week, and number of working years. In addition, the study also estimate the risk of MLBP in relation to the occupational - related risk factors which include prologed sitting, heavy lifting, prolonged standing, and whole body vibration. The list of the participants was taken from Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation - DLSUMC. Eligible subjects were those coming from Cavite ages between 19-45 years old who sought medical care from January 2009 - September 2010 at the facility. the investigators used the medical records of each respondents and a phone call interview was done for the data needed. Each occupational related risk factor was analyzed using Odd Ratio. Results of the study showed that females and those with age 35 years old and above are higly susceptible in having MLBP. In considering the employment profile of the subjects, working for 8 hors, spending 6 days in a week working, and working > 2 years on the same occupation have been associated with MLBP. Exposure to any of these increases the likehood of having MLBP. In considering the nature of work, working as a plant and machine operators - related risk fators, results showed that prolonged standing (O.R.=2.59), whole body vibration (0.R=2.03), and haevy lifting (O.R=1.34) could predispose an individual to MLBP. Those who are not exposed to prolonged sitting can also be a factor in the development of MLBP. It was found out that generally, all the occupational - related risk factors has an association to the development of Mechanical Low Back Pain based on the computed mean Odds Ration of 1.65. Therefore, exposure to the occupational-related risk factors increases the likehood of having Mechanical Low Back Pain. The investigators then recommend that proper assessment and evaluation as to exposure, and use of alternatives and work modifications especially in those natures of work which are at high risk be done to minimize the occurrence of Mechanical Low Back Pain.

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