Azer G, Gibbs MT, Jones MD, Morrison NMV, Azer A, Marshall PW. How and why do people with chronic low back pain modify their physical activity? A mixed-methods survey.
Musculoskeletal Care 2024;
22:e1885. [PMID:
38682684 DOI:
10.1002/msc.1885]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
This study investigated the impact of Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) on individuals' physical activity (PA) behaviours, specifically, how they modify, cease, or continue PA when experiencing CLBP. The primary aim was to explore the relationship between CLBP and PA and how this is influenced in different contexts (e.g., necessity of a task).
METHODS
A mixed-methods survey was administered to 220 participants, including self-reported outcomes, and capturing responses to three distinct questions related to PA and CLBP. The data was analysed via a content analysis.
RESULTS
The findings revealed that individuals with CLBP are most likely to modify PA in work-related contexts and least likely to cease it in the same setting. Housework emerged as the most common domain for cessation of PA, while work/study activities were predominantly continued. Reasons for these trends were typically task-based rather than health or enjoyment based and influenced by the perceived necessity of the task in question.
CONCLUSION
The study highlights the role of occupational and educational settings in individual responses to CLBP. The findings also highlight a gap in public awareness regarding effective CLBP management strategies, emphasising the need for increased education and awareness programs.
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