Postural Backache and Its Prevention

Abstract

This Prospective study was conducted at physiotherapy and outdoor clinic of Orthopaedics department, LGH, Lahore from April 1998 to October 1998 on 76 patients. Objective of the study was to identify the role of posture and measures to prevent recurrence of backache in daily life and at work place. The development of Low Back Pain is closely related with individual’s posture, load to the back, causative factors and individual’s endurance. Bad posture was the commonest predisposing factor of backache, recognized in this study (34.2%). Load to the back includes lifting of heavy objects, twisting of the waist and prolonged standing .The most common pain relieving posture identified in this study, is Lying Supine (42.10%), also postural alterations brought immediate relief in 18.42%. Long Standing and walking for a long period of time were the major pain aggravating factors (78.94%). Correction of posture brings significant relief. Socio-economic status of patients was affected in 85% cases as low back pain causes absence from work and low work performance. It is therefore concluded that posture has a vital role in the development of low back pain. Thus it is very important to prevent a worker from further episodes of Low Back Pain. Preventive measures of work related Low Back Pain should be designed according to his/her work environment. Patient should strictly follow precautions against Low Back Pain, avoid further exposure to the causative factor or postures. They should do specific Physical Exercises to increase strength and endurance of back muscles and flexibility of the back.