DEMOGRAPHIC ASSOCIATION AND RISK FACTORS WITH LOW BACK PAIN IN PATIENTS REFERRED FOR LUMBAR SPINE MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) remains a major global cause of disability, influenced by a complex interaction of lifestyle, occupational, and demographic factors. Its burden is particularly pronounced in developing countries, where limited ergonomic awareness and healthcare access contribute to chronicity. Understanding the demographic and clinical correlates of LBP is essential for designing preventive interventions and guiding clinical decision-making.

Objective: To identify the demographic characteristics and risk factors associated with low back pain among patients referred for lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at a tertiary care hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Radiology Department of Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar. A total of 225 patients aged 20–60 years with clinically diagnosed LBP who underwent lumbar spine MRI were included through non-probability sampling. Data were collected using a structured proforma covering demographics, pain characteristics, aggravating and relieving factors, and associated neurological symptoms. MRI findings were recorded and correlated with clinical variables. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics summarized continuous and categorical data, and associations between variables were tested using the chi-square test, with a p-value <0.05 considered significant.

Results: Of the 225 participants, 114 (50.7%) were female and 111 (49.3%) were male. The highest prevalence was observed in the 51–60-year age group (32.9%), with 106 (47.1%) housewives, 137 (60.9%) rural residents, and 83 (36.9%) obese individuals. Radiating pain was reported by 176 (78.2%) patients, gradual onset by 136 (60.4%), and aching pain quality by 120 (53.3%). Numbness (45.8%) and tingling (19.1%) were the most frequent neurological symptoms. Bending (25.8%) and sitting (20.4%) were major aggravating factors, while walking (20.9%) and sitting (19.1%) served as the most common relieving factors. Significant gender differences were found in pain site, quality, and severity (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Female gender, older age, obesity, rural residence, and housewife occupation were identified as major demographic and occupational risk factors for LBP. The findings highlight the need for community-based ergonomic education, weight management programs, and early screening strategies to prevent chronicity and reduce the socioeconomic burden of low back pain in high-risk populations.