Social Support and selected preventable lifestyle Determinants in People with vertebrogenic Difficulties

Abstract

Introduction: Up to 80% of the population has encountered back pain in some form in their life. Back pain is among the 5 most common reasons for hospitalization and is the main cause of sick leave for people over 45 years of age. This has significant consequences for the entire society. Research aim and objectives: Our research included patients of the National Rehabilitation Center Kováčová who were undergoing active rehabilitation treatment due to vertebrogenic problems. All respondents had demonstrable structural changes in the area of the lumbar spine, and around 80% of respondents had already undergone one or more lumbar spine surgeries. Our goal was to determine the relationship between the mentioned difficulties and physical activity, weight as well as the perception of social support. Methods: We used a self-constructed questionnaire focused on selected socio-demographic data and identification of eating and exercise habits. In addition, we used a standardized questionnaire titled “the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support”. Results: The analysis confirms that overweight, obesity and a lack of physical activity are related to structural changes and increased persistence of back pain. Inadequate dietary measures and insufficient physical activity directly contribute to this. Social support has a positive effect on enduring and coping with this difficult situation. Conclusion: Back pain affects almost our entire population. Therefore, it is important to address this issue, especially if prevention is possible by optimizing weight and doing adequate physical activity. We must also not forget those who are going through a difficult life period due to long-term pain and give them a helping hand and support.