Thoracic Spine Pain and Factors Associated in High School Students

Abstract

BackgroundThoracic spine pain (TSP) is relatively common in children and adolescents. AimsTo determine the prevalence of TSP in adolescents and analyze its association with sociodemographic characteristics, use of electronic devices, physical activity, and mental health. DesignCross-sectional epidemiological study. SettingA high school in Bauru City, São Paulo, Brazil. Participants/SubjectsIn total, 1,628 students aged 14-18 years. MethodsParticipants were selected by cluster sampling in two stages, and data were collected via face-to-face interviews. Data regarding the following were collected: (1) sociodemographic aspects; (2) use of electronic devices; (3) regular physical activity level; (4) mental health; and (5) TSP. ResultsThe prevalence of TSP was 51.5% (95% confidence interval, 49.1-53.9) and the variables associated with TSP were female participant sex (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.96; 1.61-2.38), use of computers for >3 hours per day (PR = 1.29; 1.01-1.66), use of computers >3 times per week (PR = 1.35; 1.03-1.75), use of cell phones in a semi-lying position (PR = 1.37; 1.11-1.69), use of cell phones for >3 hours per day (PR = 1.44; 1.12-1.85), use of tablets in the sitting position (PR = 1.47; 1.07-2.01), and presence of mental health problems (PR = 2.10; 1.63–2.70). Physical activity was a protective factor (PR = 0.84; 0.73-0.96). ConclusionsThere is a high prevalence of TSP in adolescents, with a marked association with female participant sex, use of electronic devices, and presence of mental health problems Physical activity is a protective factor. Understanding the relationship between risk factors and adolescent spinal pain may be important in both the prevention and treatment of spinal pain in this age group.