Exploring the Relationship Between Low Back Pain, Physical Activity, Posture, and Body Composition in Older Women

Low back pain (LBP) is a widespread and disabling condition affecting many older adults.

This study aimed to establish correlations between LBP, physical activity, body composition, and posture in 114 women (mean age: 67.6 ± 5.68 years). Using a cross-sectional study design, LBP was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Physical activity (PA) was measured using a pedometer to count the steps taken. Spinal curvatures in the sagittal plane were examined with a Rippstein Plurimeter.

Significant correlations were found between ODI and waist circumference (WC) (F(1, 113) = 7.574, p = 0.007), body mass index (BMI) (F(1, 113) = 11.660, p = 0.001), total fat (TF) (F(1, 113) = 8.806, p = 0.004, R² = 0.072), and total steps (F(1, 113) = 4.446, p = 0.037). No associations were found between ODI and hip circumference (HC) (F(1, 113) = 6.257, p = 0.014, R² = 0.52), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (F(1, 113) = 6.342, p = 0.013, R² = 0.053), thoracic kyphosis (THK) (F(1, 113) = 0.290, p = 0.591, R² = 0.003), or lumbar lordosis angle (LLA) (F(1, 113) = 0.290, p = 0.591, R² = 0.003).

These results of the study findings reveal the multifactorial nature of LBP syndrome and highlight the connection between LBP and ODI, BMI, WC, and TF in older women. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of implementing further prevention and intervention strategies to manage the clinical manifestation of LBP in the geriatric population. Healthcare providers can better support this population's well-being by focusing on targeted interventions.