Risk factors Associated with Pain Severity in Syrian patients with non-specific low back Pain.

BACKGROUND

Low back pain (LBP) majorly contributes to activity limitations and work absences worldwide. Therefore, a comprehensive knowledge of the risk factors linked to non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) can enable early and timely interventions to achieve long-term improvements. Current study aimed to assess the risk factors associated with the severity of NSLBP patients in Syria.

METHODS

This study used a cross-sectional design and a self-assessment questionnaire to collect data on NSLBP, as well as personal and physical factors, across four provinces in Syria (Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and Latakia) from November 2021 to September 2022. The assessments incorporated the Short Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36), the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Then we examined the relationship between the severity of NSLBP and these potential risk factors. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize the demographic characteristics of the participants. Additionally, multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the risk factors for non-specific low back pain.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 875 patients with NSLBP. The results indicated that patients with primary school education, a high body mass index (BMI), prolonged driving and sitting durations, smoking habits, and recurrent low back pain had higher VAS and ODI scores, as well as lower SF-36 scores (p < 0.01). Additionally, workers and drivers had higher VAS and ODI scores and lower SF-36 scores compared to waiters and patients who lifted objects heavier than 10 kg for more than a quarter of their work time for over 10 years (p < 0.01). The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that lower education levels, low back pain lasting 1-7 days, chronic low back pain in the past year, smoking, driving for prolonged time, and higher BMI were associated with more severe VAS scores.

CONCLUSION

The severity of NSLBP is related to lower education levels, poor living conditions, strenuous physical labor, inactive lifestyle, and driving for a long time. Additionally, patients with recurrent NSLBP experience more intense pain. To manage these issues, potential interventions could include reducing obesity rates, limiting the duration of hard physical work, limiting driving duration and reducing sedentary behaviors and smoking. These measures may help alleviate the overall burden of NSLBP.