Assessment of frequency and factors associated with low back pain among undergraduate medical students in Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: A large percentage of young adults suffer from low back pain. Due to their demanding curriculum, medical students are most susceptible. This study aims to assess the frequency and factors associated with low back pain among undergraduate medical students at a college in Bangalore. Methods: An online cross-sectional study using a questionnaire was conducted among undergraduate medical students at Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. SPSS 26.0 was used to analyze the data with a significance level of p <0.05. Results: Of the 250 students enrolled, 45.6% had low back pain. Long hours of sitting were the common factor aggravating the pain. The logistic regression analysis revealed that Phase 3 (part 2) MBBS (OR=2.53, 95% CI: 1.34 - 4.66), overweight (BMI>25) (OR=3.03, 95% CI: 1.42-6.50), coffee consumption regularly (OR=1.761, 95% CI: 1.007-3.009), Family history of LBP (OR=5.900, 95% CI: 3.182-10.939), duration of exercise/sports 1-2 hours per week (OR=1.691, 95% CI: 1.023-2.794), spending >8 hours for electronic gadgets daily (OR=2.02, 95% CI: 1.14-3.59) were found to be independently associated with low back pain. These results demonstrate an increased risk of low back pain among medical students with high BMI, lack of physical activity and increased electronic device usage. Conclusions: It highlights the necessity of focused treatments to control stress, minimize extended periods of sitting, enhance physical activity, and support proper posture among medical students. By preventing and managing low back pain, medical students can improve overall performance and quality of life.