Prevalence of Low Back Pain in Medical Students due to Prolonged Sitting

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition among medical students, attributed to their sedentary lifestyle and prolonged periods of sitting due to the demanding nature of medical education. This health concern not only affects their academic performance and quality of life but also has implications for their future professional practice in healthcare. Objective: This study aims to determine the prevalence and severity of low back pain among medical students at Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College, Lahore, and to assess its impact on their daily functioning and academic activities. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, involving 169 medical students aged 18-25 years from various programs (DPT, MBBS, BDS, Pharm-D). Participants were selected through stratified random sampling. The study utilized the Oswestry Disability Index and the Visual Analog Scale to measure the severity of LBP and its impact on daily activities. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 for descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Out of 169 participants, 56.8% reported experiencing LBP. Among those with LBP, 69.8% described their pain as mild, 27.1% as moderate, and 3.1% as severe. Regarding disability, 63.5% of the affected students reported minimal disability, 25% moderate disability, 7.3% severe disability, and 4% were crippled. The study highlighted a significant correlation between prolonged sitting and the incidence of LBP among medical students. Conclusion: The high prevalence of low back pain among medical students at Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College indicates a need for targeted interventions. These include ergonomic adjustments, promotion of physical activity, and incorporation of musculoskeletal health education into medical curricula. Addressing these factors is essential for improving the health and academic performance of medical students and preparing them for healthier professional practices.