Pain Disability Questionnaire Research Articles

Efficacy of Static Magnetic Field Therapy on Pain Intensity, Functional Disability, Sleep Quality and Depressive Symptoms in Patients with Mechanical Neck and Low Back Pain

Introduction: Mechanical neck pain (MNP) and mechanical low back pain (MLBP) can have a negative impact on the quality of life of patients and may be associated with high levels of disability. Magnetic field therapy has been using in the treatment of various diseases. This study was conducted to assess the effects of Static Magnetic Field (SMF) therapy generated by neodymium magnets in patients with MNP and MLBP. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled, crossover study, patients with MNP and MLBP were randomly assigned to either the magnetic band or sham band treatment groups. After the initial 2-week phase (with participants randomly assigned to either treatment or sham-control), both groups underwent a 1-week washout period. Subsequently, the groups were swapped and proceeded with a second 2-week phase. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (ODI), Neck Disability Index (NDI), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were used to evaluate the patients' pain severity, functional disability, sleep quality, and levels of depressive symptoms, respectively. Results: Of the 30 subjects, 17 (56.7%) had MLBP, whereas 13 (43.3%) had MNP. Magnetic band treatment (MBT) resulted in a significant decrease in the VAS score (p < 0.001) in all patients. MBT led to a significant decrease in the ODI score (p = 0.009) in patients with MLBP. A significant decrease in the NDI score was found in MBT (p < 0.001) in patients with MNP. The improvement in ISI and PHQ-9 scores was also significantly higher in MBT (p < 0.001). Conclusion: For patients with MNP and MLBP who have not experienced sufficient benefits from conventional treatments, neodymium magnets can be considered as an alternative treatment option due to their significant properties.

Study of correlation between arches of foot and lower back pain in Eastern India

Background: Low back pain is one of the most common disorders of the musculoskeletal system, leading to impaired function and decreased quality of life in many patients. Foot arch alterations may lead to structural changes and/or affect its load distribution. It should be noted that even slight elevations of the foot’s medial longitudinal arch above the norm may lead to changes in load and pressure distribution. Hence, it becomes important to find the relationship between low back pain and altered foot arch indices leading to improper body balance. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to find any correlation between lower back pain and an altered foot arch index in the Eastern Indian population. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 subjects aged 20–40 years with varying degrees of low back pain were selected. Low back pain scores of the subjects were found using modified oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire. Footprints in standing position using ink were taken on graph paper and the foot arch indices were calculated. Results: 54.16% of the male and 36.11% of female participants had low arched feet, 20.83% of male and 52.78% of female participants had normal arched feet, and 25% of male and 11.11% of female participants had high arched feet with varying degrees of low back pain. 77.42% of the participants with minimal disability due to low back pain were having normal arched feet, 71.43% of the participants with moderate disability due to low back pain were having low arched feet, and 100% of the participants with severe disability due to low back pain were having either high or low arched feet. Conclusion: This study showed that people having either low or high arched feet are at an increased risk of developing acute or chronic low back pain at some stage in their lives. Knowledge of this risk factor might even help people to choose appropriate occupations in the future.

The Comparison of Scar Mobilization Techniques with and without Core Stability Exercises on Scar Tissue Mobility and Lumbopelvic Pain

Abdominal adhesions and lumbopelvic pain can occur after a caesarean section. Many treatment approaches, such as injections, massage, surgical release, soft tissue release, strengthening, stretching and core stability exercises are available for abdominal scars. Physiotherapy treatments are considered safer and more convenient. The study aims to compare the effects of scar mobilization techniques with and without core stability exercises on scar tissue mobility and lumbopelvic pain. The study was a randomized clinical trial conducted at the Rafiqa Hospital and Fatima Hospital, Sargodha, Pakistan. A sample of 30 participants was allocated in Group A and B. Group A received scar mobilization and core stability exercises, while Group B received only scar mobilization, with both groups undergoing 3 sessions per week for total three weeks. The groups were assessed at baseline after the 5th and 9th sessions, using Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (ODI), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Manual Scar Mobility Testing (MSMT), and Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). Moreover, the data were analyzed using SPSS 25. The mean age of participants was 27.22 ± 4.21, and their body mass index was 27.10 ± 3.53. Both groups showed significant differences within the subject’s scores of disability, pain and scar mobility (p<0.05). Between-group comparison of both groups at post-treatment II showed considerable improvement in pain scores (NPRS score, p<0.05). Whereas non-significant results were in other outcome measures (disability and scar mobility p>0.05) in post-treatment II. Scar mobilization techniques with core stability exercises were more effective than scar mobilization techniques alone in the conservative treatment of females with lumbopelvic and scar pain after caesarean section.

Comparative analysis of two different physiotherapy intervention programs in individuals experiencing chronic lower back pain

Background and objectives. Physiotherapy programs in individuals experiencing chronic lower back pain (CLBP) aim to improve function, disabilities from worsening. As per clinical practice guidelines, many methods are applied, such as the McKenzie method, therapeutic exercises, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), traction, thermotherapy etc. The effectiveness of these methods is supported by a wide range of evidence and studies, making them some of the most diverse and well-established approaches. These physiotherapeutic treatments are combined every day. Therefore, the aim of this research is to provide a comparative investigation on two different physiotherapy programs containing a combination of these treatment modalities in individuals with CLBP. Materials and methods. This research involved 60 patients who were separated into two groups. Group I received the McKenzie treatment method, passive modalities, lumbar traction, and a walking program. Group II received therapeutic exercises, passive modalities, lumbar traction, and a walking program. Both groups underwent treatment for six weeks. Subjects were tested using research instruments at the beginning, at the end of three weeks, and at the end of six weeks of treatment. The evaluation instruments used were the visual analog scale, Finger-to-Floor test, the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire, and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale. Results. Pain intensity, functional disability, lumbar flexibility, and self-confidence showed greater improvement after six weeks of treatment in both programs (p <0.0001), without any significant statistical difference among the groups (p >0.05). Conclusions. The data obtained from both groups support the effectiveness of both treatment programs and suggest that they can be considered as options for viable programs treatment for patients with CLBP.

An Ayurveda Approach Towards Acute Sciatica with Paraesthesia

Sciatica is pain or paraesthesia which is radiates path of the sciatic nerve and its branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down to the leg. A 41-year-old female patient with an acute low back ache to radiate to left lower limb with paraesthesia for three months came to Kayachikitsa IPD of Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College on 18/3/24. The pain was graded eight out of ten in the VAS pain scale and her overall Oswestry low back pain score is 32 which means severe functional disability. She underwent for Vatakapha hara chikitsa protocol. It includes Rookshana, Snigda sweda, Vata hara, and Brihmana chikitsa. Ayurvedic preparations like Aadarisahacharadi kasayam, Suntibaladi choornam Vyoshadi guggulu were given Swedam, Patrapoliswedam, and Pizhichil, Shastika pinda swedam, Yoga vasti along with passive exercise were given. After 30 days of treatment outcome of these treatments found to be very positive. There was a substantial recovery in walking duration, heaviness, touch temperature perception and pain relief was observed. Subjective parameters like, SLR test, Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire, Sciatica bothersome index, Sciatica frequency index, Roland morris low back pain and disability questionnaire was taken for assessment parameters. The patient got relief in all parameters after treatment. It was proved significant improvement of patient’s primary symptoms. These therapies reduce pain, stiffness and improve circulation.

Comparison of short-wave diathermy, Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation of electrotherapy methods and exercise therapy in chronic low back conditions

Background: Low back pain is a significant contributor to global disability, impacting individuals across different age groups. Research suggests that around 80% of people will encounter low back pain at some stage in their lives. This condition is more prevalent among middle-aged and elderly individuals, with a higher occurrence among females. The socioeconomic consequences of low back pain are substantial, including increased healthcare expenses, absenteeism from work, and a diminished quality of life. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of short-wave diathermy with exercise, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation with exercise, and exercise alone among patients with chronic low back pain. Patients and Methods: 75 patients who were diagnosed with chronic low back pain, ages 20–50, participated. They were divided into three groups: group A received shortwave with exercise, group B received TENS with exercise, and group C received just exercise. Treatment was given for 12 sessions over a period of 4 weeks. All patients were evaluated before and after treatment using a visual analog scale and the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. Results: The results showed that all three interventions were effective in reducing pain and improving physical activities, with varying degrees of success. But also, the result showed that the mean difference for the short wave with exercise is much higher than both the TENS with exercise and the exercise alone types of interventions in each of the different categories, respectively. Conclusion: This study has shown that shortwave exercise is more effective in the treatment of chronic low back pain than TENS with exercise and exercise alone.

Comparison of short-wave diathermy, Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation of electrotherapy methods and exercise therapy in chronic low back conditions

Background: Low back pain is a significant contributor to global disability, impacting individuals across different age groups. Research suggests that around 80% of people will encounter low back pain at some stage in their lives. This condition is more prevalent among middle-aged and elderly individuals, with a higher occurrence among females. The socioeconomic consequences of low back pain are substantial, including increased healthcare expenses, absenteeism from work, and a diminished quality of life. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of short-wave diathermy with exercise, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation with exercise, and exercise alone among patients with chronic low back pain. Patients and Methods: 75 patients who were diagnosed with chronic low back pain, ages 20–50, participated. They were divided into three groups: group A received shortwave with exercise, group B received TENS with exercise, and group C received just exercise. Treatment was given for 12 sessions over a period of 4 weeks. All patients were evaluated before and after treatment using a visual analog scale and the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. Results: The results showed that all three interventions were effective in reducing pain and improving physical activities, with varying degrees of success. But also, the result showed that the mean difference for the short wave with exercise is much higher than both the TENS with exercise and the exercise alone types of interventions in each of the different categories, respectively. Conclusion: This study has shown that shortwave exercise is more effective in the treatment of chronic low back pain than TENS with exercise and exercise alone. Keywords: Shortwave, TENS, Exercise, Chronic low back pain.

Prevalence of Low Back Pain in Pregnant Females

Background: Low back pain (LBP) during pregnancy is a common condition that affects a significant number of women, impacting their daily activities and overall quality of life. Various studies have documented the prevalence and severity of LBP among pregnant women, highlighting the need for more focused healthcare strategies. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence, onset, and severity of LBP in pregnant women, and to evaluate the impact of LBP on their daily activities, with a view to enhancing prenatal care and management approaches. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months at two hospitals in Lahore, involving 181 pregnant women selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire and the Numeric Pain Index Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, focusing on descriptive statistics to calculate means, standard deviations, and prevalence percentages. Ethical considerations followed the Helsinki Declaration guidelines, with informed consent obtained from all participants. Results: The prevalence of LBP among the participants was 76.8%. The pain onset was most frequently reported in the second trimester (38.1% of cases). Severity assessments revealed 36.5% of participants experienced moderate pain and 40.3% severe pain. LBP significantly impaired daily functions, with many women reporting difficulties in walking, sitting, and engaging in other routine activities. Conclusion: LBP is highly prevalent among pregnant women and begins primarily in the second trimester, with a considerable impact on daily activities. This study emphasizes the necessity for routine prenatal assessment and targeted interventions to manage LBP, which could improve pregnancy outcomes and maternal health.

Unilateral biportal endoscopy vs. open decompression for lumbar epidural lipomatosis-cohort study using a prospective registry.

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of unilateral biportal endoscopy, unilateral laminectomy bilateral decompression (UBE-ULBD), and open lumbar decompression (OLD) in patients with lumbar epidural lipomatosis (LEL). This prospective observational study was conducted from March 2019 to May 2022 and encompassed 33 patients with LEL who underwent lumbar decompression. The study included 15 cases of UBE-ULBD decompression and 18 cases of open decompression, which were followed up for 1 year. The baseline characteristics, initial clinical manifestations, and surgical details [including estimated blood loss (EBL) and preoperative complications] of all patients were recorded. Radiographic evaluation included the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the thecal sac and paraspinal muscles on MRI. Clinical results were analyzed using the Short Form-36 Score (SF-36), the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NRS) for lumbar and leg pain, creatine kinase, the Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). The dural sac CSA increased considerably at the 1-year postoperative follow-up in both groups (p < 0.001). The operative duration in the OLD group (48.2 ± 7.2 min) was shorter than that in the UBE-ULBD group (67.7 ± 6.3 min, p < 0.001). The OLD group (97.2 ± 19.8 mL) was associated with more EBL than the UBE-ULBD group (40.6 ± 13.6 mL, p < 0.001). The duration of hospitalization in the OLD group (5.4 ± 1.3 days) was significantly longer compared with the UBE-ULBD group (3.5 ± 1.2 days, p < 0.01). The SF-36, NRS, RMDQ, and ODI scores improved in both groups postoperatively (p < 0.001). Serum creatine kinase values in the UBE-ULBD group (101.7 ± 15.5) were significantly lower than those in the OLD group (330.8 ± 28.1 U/L) 1 day after surgery (p < 0.001). The degree of paraspinal muscle atrophy in the UBE-ULBD group (4.81 ± 1.94) was significantly lower than that in the OLD group (12.15 ± 6.99) at 1 year (p < 0.001). UBE-ULBD and OLD demonstrated comparable clinical outcomes in treating LEL. However, UBE-ULBD surgery was associated with shorter hospital stays, lower rates of incision infection, lighter paravertebral muscle injury, and lower EBL than OLD surgery. Consequently, UBE-ULBD can be recommended in patients with LEL if conservative treatment fails.

A PROSPECTIVE COMPARATIVE STUDY ON EFFICACY OF ORAL VITAMIN D FORMULATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN WITH VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Objective: Chronic low back pain is a global health problem with significant medical and economic burden. Vitamin D deficiency and obesity are its risk factors. The objective was to determine efficacy of oral vitamin D formulations in patients with chronic low back pain with vitamin D deficiency.&#x0D; Methods: A prospective analytical cohort study was conducted. Patients with self-reported chronic low back pain and with vitamin D concentrations ≤30 ng/dl were identified and randomized into 3 groups namely Granule, Nano syrup and soft gel capsule group. Vitamin D supplementation of 60,000 IUs per dose for ten consecutive days was given in the form of granule (1 g sachet), Nano syrup (5 ml bottle) and soft gel capsule. We measured (25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D]) concentrations and to assess pain, Visual analogue scale and Modified Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire (MODQ) were used before and 12 w after the intervention.&#x0D; Results: After 12 w 25(OH)D levels increased significantly with vitamin D supplementation in all the groups but more in the Nano syrup group. There was also significant reduction in back pain intensity in all the groups after vitamin D supplementation. However in Nano syrup group, there was a significantly greater reduction in back pain compared with other groups.&#x0D; Conclusion: Our findings suggest that vitamin D supplementation in vitamin D deficient adults may improve chronic low back pain. Hence, testing for vitamin D deficiency in those with chronic low back pain may be warranted.

Comparing the Efficacy of Transforaminal and Caudal Epidural Injections of Calcitonin in Treating Degenerative Spinal Canal Stenosis: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial.

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is the most common indication for lumbar surgery in elderly patients. Epidural injections of calcitonin are effective in managing LSS. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of transforaminal and caudal injections of calcitonin in patients with LSS. In this double-blind randomized clinical trial, LSS patients were divided into two equal groups (N = 20). The first group received 50 IU (international units) of calcitonin via caudal epidural injection (CEI), and the second group received 50 IU of calcitonin via transforaminal epidural injection (TEI). The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (ODI) were used to assess the patient's pain and ability to stand, respectively. Visual Analogue Scale and ODI scores were recorded and analyzed. The results showed that caudal and TEIs of calcitonin significantly improved pain and ability to stand during follow-up compared to before intervention (P < 0.05). Additionally, CEI of calcitonin after 6 months significantly reduced pain in LSS patients compared to TEI of calcitonin (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was observed between the two epidural injection techniques in improving the patient's ability to stand (P > 0.05). The results of the study indicate that epidural injection of calcitonin in long-term follow-up (6 months) had a significant effect on improving pain intensity and mobility in patients with LSS, and its effect on pain in the TEI method was significantly greater than that in the CEI method.

Experiential Avoidance as a Factor in Generalized Psychological Vulnerability: In the Relationship Between Chronic Pain and Pain Anxiety With Pain Disability

BackgroundPain is a major socio-psychological problem worldwide. Chronic pain has a negative effect on areas of psychological functioning such as depression, anxiety, and perceived stress. AimThe present study investigated the mediating role of experiential avoidance in the relationship between chronic pain and pain anxiety with pain disability. MethodsParticipants were treatment-seeking patients (N = 361) at an outpatient pain clinic in Shiraz (Fars, Iran). The Multidimensional Pain Inventory (MPI), Pain Anxiety Symptom Scale (PASS-20), Pain Disability Questionnaire (PDQ), and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II) were used to measure multidimensional pain, anxiety, pain disability, experiential avoidance, and pain severity. ResultsThe results of the correlation revealed that a significant relationship exists between multidimensional pain and pain anxiety, pain disability, and experiential avoidance. Experiential avoidance mediated the associations from multidimensional pain and pain disability significantly. Also, experiential avoidance moderated associations between pain anxiety and pain disability significantly. In general, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) showed that experiential avoidance mediated the relationship between multidimensional pain and pain anxiety with pain disability. ConclusionIn general, the results revealed that experiential avoidance can mediate the relationship among pain, pain anxiety, and pain disability as a maladaptive regulation strategy. The results obtained from this study seem to introduce experiential avoidance as a vulnerability factor effectively.

Percutaneous full-endoscopic transforaminal discectomy versus open microdiscectomy in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation: randomized controlled trial

BackgroundLumbar disc herniation is one of the most common degenerative spine conditions. In our center, the standard surgical technique for treatment of lumbar disc herniation is open microdiscectomy. The full-endoscopic transforaminal discectomy is done for selective cases of lumbar disc herniation under local anesthesia, achieving good results. This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes, operative data, and complications of the treatment of lumbar disc herniation with “percutaneous full-endoscopic transforaminal discectomy” (TED) and the gold standard “open microdiscectomy" (MD). This was a randomized controlled trial that included 65 patients with lumbar disc herniation: 32 in the TED group and 33 in the MD group.ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to the visual analogue scale (VAS) for leg pain, the VAS for back pain, or the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (ODI) score at the end of the 1-year follow-up. The operative time in minutes was statistically shorter in the TED group, with a mean value of 50.38 (± 11.65) and 61.09 (± 12.32) in the MD group. The blood loss was 77.33 CC (± 23.14) in the TED group and 170 CC (± 56.06) in the MD group. The mean duration of hospital stay in days was statistically shorter in the TED group. Exposure to radiation in minutes was higher in the TED group: 1.09 (± 0.33) and 0.18 (± 0.08) in the TED group and MD group, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of complications.ConclusionTED showed superiority over MD with regard to blood loss, operative time and shorter hospital stays, but with increased radiation exposure. There was no difference in clinical outcomes regarding VAS for leg and back pain and ODI score at 1 year follow-up with no significant difference in complications.

Compare the Effectiveness of Interferential Therapy with Mckenzie Versus TENS With Mckenzie to Reduce Low Back Pain

Background: Low back pain is not an illness but rather a collection of symptoms that are typically acute and selflimiting.It has an impact on work performance and general wellbeing. The most commonly used modalities ofLBP are Interferential therapy and TENS. Hence this research work is done to check the effectiveness of IFT withMcKenzie and TENS with McKenzie for reducing low back pain.Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of IFT and TENS combined with McKenzie to reduce low back pain.Materials and Methods: 60 subjects were selected based on selection criteria.. The subjects were assessed usingVAS and OSWESTRY Low back pain disability questionnaires . The subjects selected were divided into twogroups. IFT group(n=30) received IFT for 20 minutes per day combined with McKenzie exercises TENS group (n=30) received TENS for 20 minutes per day combined with McKenzie exercises. These interventions were given for4 days per week for 2 weeks. Study period: October 2022 to July 2023.Result: The pretest and posttest values were analyzed and results suggest that the IFT group has significantimprovement when compared with the TENS group with p value &lt;0.0001.Conclusion: The study concludes that the IFT with McKenzie and TENS with McKenzie is effective for patientswith low back pain but IFT with McKenzie seems to be more effective than TENS with McKenzie.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and meditation in the treatment of persistent low back pain: Interventional Study

Objective: To compare the effect of both CBT and Meditation in chronic lower back pain patients.&#x0D; Method: Participants fulfilling the exclusion and inclusion criteria and who are between the age group of 35-50 years with CLBP were included. Numerical pain rating scale and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) was used for the participant selection. The participants were further divided into three groups and 4-week intervention of conventional physiotherapeutic exercise, meditation and CBT, was given to the participants. Numerical Pain Rating Scale and Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire were used as outcome measures.&#x0D; Results: 40 chronic back pain patients were enrolled and randomized. All enrolled participants completed baseline tests, providing cross-sectional data for this study. Simple randomization allocated 14 patients to the control group and 13 patients each to Experimental Group 1 and Experimental Group 2. Significant within-group improvements occurred on the Numerical Rating Scale and Oswestry scores between baseline and final visits for all groups. However, the experimental groups showed significantly greater decreases in pain intensity versus controls, evidenced by reduced mean Numerical Rating Scale and Oswestry scores at follow-up. One-way ANOVA and Welch tests revealed significantly reduced Numerical Rating Scale and Oswestry scores after treatment across groups. Both tests yielded statistically significant p-values &lt;0.01.&#x0D; Conclusion: The findings show that meditation and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are beneficial in reducing pain. As a result, for patients with persistent low back pain, taking into consideration these two treatment techniques is critical.&#x0D; Keywords: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Chronic Pain, Oswestry Questionnaire

Prevalence of low back pain and disability among secondary school teacher in the eastern province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional analytical study.

Lower back pain is common worldwide and affects over 600,000 people annually, including teachers. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of low back pain and disability among secondary school teachers in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study included secondary school teachers in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. 34 schools were selected using a multistage stratified sampling approach. Teachers were allotted randomly and proportionally to each school. Data was collected by anonymous questionnaire having three elements: sociodemographic and health-related questions, the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire, and the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. The anthropometric data was also included. Both unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression analyses were performed. A total of 601 teachers participated in the study with 62.56% reported low back pain. The overall mean age was 40.31 ± 8.13 years. The male-to-female ratio was similar. Back pain was significantly higher among females than males (73.36 and 51.52%, respectively). Additionally, back pain will significantly increase when stress levels and the number of classes increases. A positive correlation was found between age with low back pain (p = 0.001).There was minimal disability in 64.63% of the 376 teachers who reported low back pain, moderate disability in 29.79%, and severe disability in 4.79%, and only three (0.8%) were considered crippled. Females were more frequently seen in moderate and crippled categories, and perceived stress levels generally increased mean disability scores. Age and female gender were revealed to be significant predictors of low back pain by logistic regression (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02-1.07) and (adjusted OR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.45-3.05), respectively. The number of classes per week was also a significant predictor. This study adds to the epidemiological evidence that reveals a high prevalence of low back pain and disability among teachers. Identified risk factors in this study may also reinforce the importance of setting different interventions and preventive measures to reduce lower back pain risk.

Primary osteoarthritis of the lumbar spine presenting as chronic low back pain or sciatica or both (prolapsed lumber disc syndrome): establishing its cause, pathogenesis, and treatment: A randomized case-control study

: The objectives of this study were to compare three scores, Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) for low back pain, and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) Vertical Version at the beginning and end point in two, Trial (G1), and Control (G2) groups of Primary Osteoarthritis of lumbar spine patients.The inner nucleus pulposus may rupture out from the annulus as the disc continues to degrade or as the spine continues to be stressed. This is a herniated or burst disc. The nerve roots that are immediately behind the disc space may then be pressed by the disc material fragments. This may result in discomfort, frailty, numbness, or alterations in feeling.: Understanding the causes, pathophysiology, and treatments for prolapsed lumber disc syndrome, which presents as primary osteoarthritis of the lumbar spine and causes chronic low back pain, sciatica, or both.: In this study, the total number of patients were 150, in G1 - 100, and G2 - 50. G1 received the hypothesized treatment, Contracture Correction Therapy (CCT), while G2 did “No Therapy”. WOMAC determination was done by the questionnaire; ODI by modified Oswestry Low Back pain disability questionnaire and VAS by Visual Analogue Scale Vertical Version, all at 0, 6, 12, and 24 weeks. The CCT consisted of 1. Immobilization of the spine. 2. Passive and active extension of the spine. 3. Three therapeutic rituals and 4. Advice to avoid stooping.: The CCT receiving was associated with much recovery (P &amp;#60;0.00) while non-receiving with much less (P =0.00). In G1 WOMAC decreased from 54.29 to 0.00; ODI from 51.82 to 1.80; VAS rose from 37.56 to 100 (rise indicates betterment) P= 0.00. In G2 WOMAC lowered from 56.40 to 4.08; ODI from 65.10 to 6.0; VAS rose from 34.40 to 81.00. Relief in symptoms was similar.: The cause, pathogenesis, and treatment are deficient full extension, I.V. joint capsule contracture formation, and extension of the lumbar spine respectively.

Prevalence of Low Back Pain Among University Attendants in Tabuk City During 2023: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia.

College students are at a higher risk of suffering low back pain (LBP). Assessing the magnitude of the problem and the associated risk factors can help reduce the suffering and disability in future doctors. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and related factors of LBP among medical students in the University of Tabuk and emphasize the need for targeted interventions that could help alleviate the burden of LBP among the students and improve their quality of life. This cross-sectional study used an online well-structured, self-report questionnaire to collect the respondents' data. The questionnaire explored the participants' sociodemographic factors, lifestyle, and the severity of LBP-related disability using the modified Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)) score. The prevalence rate of LBP was 26.8%. The independent factors that significantly increased the probability of LBP included overweight/obesity (odds ratio (OR): 1.696, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.086 to 2.648, p = 0.020) and stretching exercises (OR: 1.784, 95% CI: 1.104 to 2.883, p = 0.018). The independent predictors that significantly increased the severity of ODI included married marital status (p = 0.007), back surgery (p = 0.031), and higher pain intensity (p < 0.001). We found that the prevalence rate of LBP among our sample was around 26%. This rate is approximate to the rates reported in previous studies. Furthermore, the activities most affected by LBP were sitting, standing, and lifting. Future studies should explore other risk factors and attempt to determine the onset of pain. A longitudinal study design is recommended to identify the onset of developing LBP.

Comparative effects of Bowen therapy and tennis ball technique on pain and functional disability in patients with thoracic myofascial pain syndrome

BackgroundThoracic myofascial pain syndrome is a clinical problem arising from the muscles and soft tissues of thoracic region, which include the mid and upper back area. Risk factors associated with myofascial pain syndrome are muscle overuse and repetitive strain, poor posture, trauma or injury, emotional and psychological stresses. The management of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) typically involves a multidimensional approach that focuses on relieving pain, reducing muscle tension, and improving muscle function. Bowen therapy and tennis ball technique are also recommended for treating myofascial pain syndrome.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to compare the effects of Bowen therapy and tennis ball technique on pain and functional disability in patients with thoracic myofascial pain syndrome.MethodsIt was a randomized clinical trial conducted on thirty patients. It was carried out in physiotherapy outpatient department of D.H.Q Hospital, Kasur. Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used. Data collection was done from the patients of thoracic myofascial pain syndrome by using Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain and Pain Disability Questionnaire (PDQ) for functional disability. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups using computer generated random number method. Group A received Bowen therapy, and group B received tennis ball technique. Outcome measures were measured at baseline, after second week treatment session and after fourth week with three sessions in a week on alternate days. Data analysis was done by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.ResultsThere was significant difference between the mean values of NPRS and PDQ in both groups at baseline, second week and fourth week with p value < 0.05. The results indicated that both treatments were significant but Bowen therapy is more effective treatment than tennis ball technique. Within-group difference calculated with repeated-measure ANOVA indicated that there was significant difference from pre- to post-values of both groups.ConclusionThis study concluded that Bowen therapy produced statistically significant and clinically relavant results for all the outcome measures. Trial registration. (IRCT20190717044238N7).

Benefit of pain and function after cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections, an observational study

ObjectiveTo evaluate the improvement of pain and function after cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections (CTFESI) for radicular pain. DesignThis is a retrospective observational study of patients receiving fluoroscopically-guided cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections under a single provider at a tertiary referral center from December 2013 to December 2020. Primary outcome measures were Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), patient reported percent of pain relief, the Patient Health Questionnaire, the Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global Health Physical and Mental Health score, and the Pain Disability Questionnaire. ResultsA total of 219 individual patients underwent 261 CTFESI and were included in the analyses. The average subject age was 51.9 years (SD = 11.3) and 50.9 % were male. Following the intervention, average pain relief by NRS at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years was −4.07, −3.82, −4.20, and −4.45, respectively. The average functional improvement with PROMIS-GH physical at 3-months, 6-months, 1- year, and 2-years was 2.23, 2.35, 3.15, and 3.29, respectively. ConclusionsOur results suggest that patients with cervical radiculopathy report significant pain relief and functional improvement following CTFESI. They can also report clinically important improvement in their health-related quality of life.