Prevalence of low back pain among physiotherapy students

Abstract

Purpose: To identify the prevalence of low back pain among the physiotherapy students. Objective: To identify how many physiotherapy students experience of low back pain, to explore male female ratio among physiotherapy students, evaluate the which age group are more affected for low back pain, to find out physical activity level among physiotherapy students. Methodology: The study design was cross sectional. Total 80 samples were selected 40 from BHPI physiotherapy students and 40 from NITOR physiotherapy students. Data was collected by mixed type of questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis which focused through table, pie and bar chart. Data were numerically coded and captured in Microsoft Excel, using an SPSS 20 version software program. Results: The findings of the study will provide a baseline of information about low back pain among physiotherapy students. In percentage 93.75% participants suffered from LBP and 7.25% have not suffered from LBP. In BHPI physiotherapy students 90% (36) and in NITOR physiotherapy students 97.5% (39) experienced pain at least 1 in NPRS scale. Among all participants female students were 52.5% (42) and male students were 47.5% (38). In BHPI physiotherapy students 70% (28) were female and 30% (12) were male so majority of BHPI physiotherapy students were female. On the other hands in NITOR physiotherapy students 35% (14) were female and 65% (26) were male. Physical activity level of all participants 73.75% were high, 22.50% moderate and 3.75% low. Among them in BHPI physiotherapy students 72.50% did high physical activity, 25% moderate and 2.5% low physical activity. In NITOR physiotherapy students 75% did high, 20% moderate and 5% low level of physical activity. Conclusion: Low back pain (LBP) is a common health problem. In this survey there was a high prevalence of LBP among physiotherapy students. Physiotherapist must focus on proper technique posture and adhere to a regimen of self-care to reduce the risk of pain. Key words: Low back pain, risk factors, physical activities and physiotherapy students