LOW BACK PAIN AMONG OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS AND ITS ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common work–related health problems, affecting health care professionals. In Malaysia, research data on the prevalence of low back pain, and its associated risk factors, among occupational therapists, is currently lacking. In view of this situation this study is aimed at identifying the prevalence, associated risk factors, and effects of LBP, among occupational therapists in Malaysia. This cross-sectional study involves a total of 287 occupational therapists. The instruments used in this study include demographic information, a Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and an Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. Data were collected online, and processed with the use of SPSS-21. This study revealed a high lifetime (79.4%), and one-year (71.1%) LBP prevalence among occupational therapists, in comparison to the point LBP prevalence (28.6%). The significant risk factors associated to LBP were identified as gender, exercise status, work stress level, and a poor working posture. Among those afflicted with LBP, 53.4% experienced a reduction in work activity, while 81.6% were affected by a minimal functional disability. A substantial proportion of occupational therapists in Malaysia, endure functional disability associated with LBP, which consequently has a negative effect on their leisure time and working life. As such, efforts should be directed at introducing multilevel interventions, for the prevention and control of LBP, in terms of this highly vulnerable occupational group.