Incidence of low back pain in workage adults in rural North India

Out of 11234 patients reporting to our outdoor during June 2001 to June 2002, 2594 patients (23.09%) had low back pain. 4358 roentgenograms were done in these patients, a mean of 1.68 per patient. These patients were interviewed and their psychosocial and demographic details were compared with 1000 controls who did not have back pain but attended outdoor for other reasons. In the low back pain group, 67% had psychosocial issues, 57% were in blue-collar jobs, 26% had to change/leave their profession, and 38% did not enjoy their present job. All patients had used NSAIDS at some stage of illness and 64% were advised exercises for the back. The comparative figures in control group were 19% with psychosocial issues, 34% in blue-collar jobs (heavy manual workers), 7% had to switch over to new job, 6% did not relish their present job. Hence, it is concluded that along with exercises and NSAIDS, sufficient consideration should be given to short centre-based intensive rehabilitation program followed by a home-based program for chronic low back pain patients.