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Low Back Pain Prevalence among Distance Learning Students.
Mohannad Hawamdeh1,2, Thamer A Altaim2, Amjad Shallan1
1Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan.
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic increased low back pain in students due to prolonged computer use during online learning. Pain intensity significantly rose during and after online classes compared to before.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Musculoskeletal Health
Background:
- Low back pain is a global health concern affecting diverse populations.
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated prolonged sitting for students engaged in distance learning.
- Understanding the impact of extended computer use on student low back pain is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between prolonged computer sitting during the COVID-19 pandemic and new episodes of low back pain in students.
- To compare low back pain intensity before, during, and after periods of online distance learning.
Main Methods:
- Observational, cross-sectional study design.
- Online questionnaire administered to students with recent distance learning experience.
- Statistical analysis included McNemar’s test, paired t-tests, and chi-square tests.
Main Results:
- 84 students participated (54.8% female).
- Low back pain prevalence increased from 42.9% before online learning to higher levels during and after.
- Mean pain scores significantly increased from 2.85 before online learning to 4.79 during and 4.76 after (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Student low back pain prevalence significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic due to distance learning.
- Prolonged computer use associated with online learning is a key factor.
- Further research on student behavior and long-term impacts of distance learning is recommended.
