Prevelanace of Non-Specific Low Back Pain with Compromised Endurance and Stability in Young Adult Females

Abstract

Background: Non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts the quality of life, particularly among young adult females. It leads to decreased physical fitness, compromised balance and endurance, and increased disability, affecting daily activities and overall well-being. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the effects of NSLBP on cardiopulmonary endurance and balance in young adult females and to explore the implications for healthcare management and intervention strategies. Methods: This observational cross-sectional survey involved 60 female participants aged 18-40 years, experiencing NSLBP without underlying pathological conditions. The study employed convenience sampling at the University of Lahore Gujrat Campus over a six-month period. Measures included the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) for disability assessment, the Time Up and Go (TUG) test for balance, and the Rockport Fitness Test for evaluating cardiopulmonary endurance. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, with T-tests for quantitative data and Chi-square tests for qualitative data. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The majority of participants (66.7%) were in the 18-23 age group. According to the VAS, 43.3% reported severe pain, and 33.3% reported moderate pain. The ODI revealed that 60% of participants had minimal disability. Cardiopulmonary endurance analysis showed that 43.33% of participants had poor endurance, and 31.67% had very poor endurance. The TUG test indicated compromised balance, with a significant relationship between NSLBP and balance (p < 0.05). Statistical analysis further highlighted significant associations between NSLBP with age and cardiopulmonary endurance but not with BMI. Conclusion: NSLBP significantly affects cardiopulmonary endurance and balance among young adult females, indicating the need for a multidisciplinary approach in management and intervention. This study emphasizes the importance of incorporating physical therapy and lifestyle modifications to improve balance, endurance, and overall quality of life in individuals with NSLBP.