Abstract
Introduction
Low back pain (LBP) is the most prevalent musculoskeletal condition and the most common cause of disability in developed nations. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and the general characteristics of LBP in a middle-aged population living in southern Brazil.
Materials and Methods
Cross-sectional study developed in a city located in southern Brazil. Data were collected from 1,005 individuals at randomized public locations. A protocol was designed to evaluate the following the general characteristics of the population: age, gender, level of education, socioeconomic status, body mass index (BMI), occupation, smoking, physical activity, anxiety, and depression. After the initial evaluation, the individuals were asked if they had LBP at least once in their lifetime. Those who answered “yes” continued the questionnaire that evaluated pain intensity, characteristics, and related disability.
Results
The mean age was 33.74 years ( ± 14.76 years) and 61.6% of the participants were female. Overall, 72% of the participants had LBP at least once in their lives. The median of VAS intensity of pain was 4 (range, 2.0–5.25). Female gender (p = 0.006) and anxiety (p < 0.001) were higher in those with LBP.
Conclusion
LBP is a highly prevalent condition in a middle-aged population of the South Region of Brazil. The variables related to these symptoms are higher levels of anxiety and female gender.