Impact of Concurrent Pain on Active Living: An Exploratory Analysis Based on National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Abstract

Physical inactivity is a major concern in public health globally. However, there is limited information on the impact of multi-site pain on active living. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between concurrent pain and leisure time physical activities. The study sample comprised 2628 adults from the 2003 to 2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Twelve-months prevalence of concurrent pain was 31.8%. Musculoskeletal comorbidity ranged between 77.8 % and 100%. The associations between pain sites were stronger in contralateral sides. Concurrent pain was positively associated with stretching (OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.3-2.4, p = 0.000). Adults with concurrent pain were highly likely to engage in stretching exercises than other sport or exercise activities. We advocate a biopsychosocial approach in the management of adults with concurrent pain so as to achieve the recommended level of physical activity.