Lifetime prevalence of non-specific low back pain in adolescents: a cross-sectional epidemiological survey

BACKGROUND: Many non-conclusive studies have been conducted on low back pain (LBP) in adolescents and associated factors.OBJECTIVE: The aim was to assess lifetime prevalence and associated factors of LBP in adolescents.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire was administered in high-schools (14-19 years old participants) in Veneto region (Italy). The self-administered, structured questionnaire included anthropometric data, psychological factors and lifestyle, presence, intensity and family history of LBP, referral to professional healthcare for LBP, and a short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.RESULTS: Six-thousand-two-hundred-eighty-one adolescents were recruited; 5204 questionnaires were included in final analysis. Two-thousand-five-hundred-forty-nine (48.98%) students reported one or more LBP episodes and 723 (13.89%) non-specific disabling lumbar pain (i.e. no underlying pathology). Thousand and forty (41.11%) subjects with LBP consulted a healthcare professional. A significant association emerged for LBP with sex (female), positive family history, time spent sitting or using electronic devices, sleep deprivation (less than five hours/night) and low-level of physical activity.CONCLUSION: In a large sample of adolescents, LBP lifetime prevalence is high and often associated with disabling pain and sedentary lifestyle, requiring professional care. These findings may support the development of prevention and treatment strategies of LBP in adolescents, reducing the risk of developing chronic pain.