Prevalence and Associated Factors of Low Back Pain (LBP) among Adolescents in Central, Thailand

BACKGROUND: Low Back Pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders found from adolescent to the elderly. These affect the quality of life of adolescents due to the inability to fully perform any activity. The information concerning LBP in Thailand is still limited especially among adolescents. Most related studies were conducted among young adult. The present study was aimed to determine the prevalence and the associated factors of LBP among adolescents in Central Thailand.

METHODS: A total of 4944 adolescents were included in the study. The Nordic Standard Questionnaire (NSQ) was used to screen LBP conditions among these adolescents. Standardized questionnaires were used to collect demographic data and associated factors.

RESULTS: The prevalence of LBP among adolescents was 26.7%. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that adolescents with LBP were associated with both behavioral and physical activity factors. These factors included sex, grade, using a smartphone, transportation to school, suitability of chairs and desks, history of back injury and low frequency of exercise

CONCLUSION: Our data emphasized that LBP was a problem among adolescent. Supportive exercise and physical activity should be provided for adolescents.