Knowledge and associated factor of low back pain patients: A cross sectional study

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a major contributor to global disability, affecting people of all ages and occupations. Persistent LBP places a significant burden on healthcare systems, reduces work productivity, and diminishes quality of life. Although modifiable risk factors, such as physical inactivity, poor ergonomics, and obesity, are widely recognized, public awareness and preventive behavior remain inconsistent. Common misconceptions, including the overreliance on rest and painkillers, continue to obstruct effective management. Objectives: This study aimed to assess LBP knowledge and identify associated factors among patients in Bangladesh. Specific objectives included evaluating knowledge levels, examining correlations between demographics and lifestyle, identifying misconceptions, analyzing preventive behaviors, and assessing the roles of education and healthcare accessibility. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP) in Savar, Bangladesh. A total of 120 adult patients diagnosed with LBP were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected via structured face-to-face interviews using the validated Low Back Pain Knowledge Questionnaire (LBPKQ). Descriptive statistics (means, SDs, percentages) and inferential tests (chi-square) were used to analyze associations between knowledge and other variables using SPSS. Results: The mean age was 35.6 years (SD=11.6), with 57.5% male participants. Most (63.3%) were urban residents, and 80.8% had education above the secondary level. The mean LBPKQ score was 9.11/24 (SD=3.53), indicating moderate knowledge. Pain was reported daily by 66.7%, and 60% sat for more than 6 hours/day. Significant associations were observed between pain frequency and both occupation (p<0.001) and sedentary behavior (p<0.001). Only 4.2% used ergonomic tools, while 44.2% did not adjust posture during work. Stress was recognized by 55.8% as a pain trigger. Discussion: The study reveals moderate LBP knowledge but critical gaps in ergonomics and preventive practices. Sedentary lifestyles, inadequate workplace setups, and persistent misconceptions were significant contributors. Interventions must focus on ergonomic training, awareness campaigns, and psychosocial support. Keywords: Low back pain, health literacy, ergonomics, sedentary lifestyle, occupational health, Bangladesh.