Cycling and low back pain: A large cross-sectional study on prevalence and risk factors
Andrei Pereira Pernambuco1, Izabely Arantes Santos2, Laura Fonseca Vaz do Amaral2
1Centro Universitário de Formiga (UNIFOR-MG), Dr. Arnaldo Sena, 328 - Formiga, MG, 35570-000, Brazil; Universidade de Itaúna (UIT), Rodovia MG 431 Km 45, s/n -Itaúna, MG, 35680-142, Brazil.
Introduction:
Cycling is a widely practiced sport; however, its high biomechanical demands can lead to musculoskeletal complaints, particularly low back pain (LBP). Factors such as posture, cycling discipline, and individual characteristics may influence this condition.
Objective:
To assess the prevalence of LBP among cyclists who sought professional Bike Fit services and examine its association with sociodemographic and sports-related factors, including age, body mass, body mass index (BMI), and cycling discipline.
Methods:
This study employed a cross-sectional, observational, and retrospective design, analyzing data from 1521 cyclists (37.6 ± 9.2 years, ranging from 12 to 81 years), attended by 15 professional Bike Fitters. Data were collected through electronic forms and analyzed statistically using Pearson's chi-square test, Cramer's V, Spearman's correlation, Cohen's d, and logistic regression analysis.
Results:
LBP was reported by 29.2 % of the cyclists. Significant associations were observed between LBP occurrence and cycling discipline (p ≤ 0.01, Cramer's V = 0.107), age (p ≤ 0.01, Cohen's d = -0.157), and body mass (p = 0.03, Cohen's d = -0.174). These three variables were the only ones retained in the regression model explaining LBP in cyclists.
Conclusion:
Younger cyclists, those with higher body mass, and MTB practitioners were more likely to report LBP. Although effect sizes were small, these findings may help identify higher-risk profiles and support clinical decisions in Bike Fit and rehabilitation contexts.
