Low Back Pain and its Associated Factors among Health Workers of Grande International Hospital, Kathmandu: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study

Abstract

Introduction: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common causes of musculoskeletal disorders related to work status and condition, leading to a major cause of disease burden across developing and developed countries.   The aim of this study was to identify low back pain and its associated factors among health workers at Grande International Hospital, Kathmandu.

Method: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study among health workers of Grande International Hospital, Kathmandu. A total of 374 health workers were selected through convenient sampling techniques. The study was conducted through a semi-structured questionnaire. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 20 for Windows using descriptive analysis. 

Results: The prevalence of LBP was 374 (69%), with significant associations found with marital status (p=0.026), gender (p=0.006), moving and lifting (p=0.008), and repetitive movements (p=0.048). However, no significant associations were observed with age (p=0.348), BMI) (p= 0-678), professional level (p=0.678), awkward posture (p=0.087), physical workload (p=0.228), lack of chair with backrest (p=0.416), not enough support (p=0.802), and manual materials handle (p=0.461. Repetitive movements, moving, and lifting were the most commonly perceived risk factors for LBP.

Conclusion: LBP is a common occupational health issue among healthcare workers. Factors such as marital status, moving and lifting heavy medical equipment, and repetitive movements contribute significantly to its prevalence. Proper body mechanics and periodic job rotation are recommended to reduce LBP risk among healthcare workers.