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Low back pain in schoolchildren. An epidemiological study.
F Balagué1, G Dutoit, M Waldburger
1Department of Rheumatology, Cantonal Hospital, Fribourg, Switzerland.
Scandinavian Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Low back pain (LBP) affects one-third of schoolchildren. Factors like age, female sex, watching TV, smoking, and sports increase LBP risk.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Pediatric Health
Background:
- Low back pain (LBP) is a common health issue with significant impact.
- Understanding LBP prevalence and risk factors in children is crucial for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of backache among schoolchildren.
- To investigate the etiological role of various contributing factors in LBP.
Main Methods:
- Prospective epidemiological study design.
- Validated questionnaire administered to 1715 schoolchildren.
- Analysis of correlations between LBP and potential risk factors.
Main Results:
- Approximately 33% of schoolchildren reported experiencing low back pain.
- Significant positive correlations found between LBP and increased age.
- Female sex, extended television viewing, smoking, and participation in competitive sports were associated with higher LBP incidence.
Conclusions:
- A substantial proportion of schoolchildren experience low back pain.
- Identified risk factors including age, sex, lifestyle, and sports participation require attention for LBP prevention strategies.
- Further research into targeted interventions for pediatric LBP is warranted.