Risk Factors for Chronic Lower Back Pain among Older Workers: A Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors for the development of chronic lower back pain in older workers. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study using an Internet survey of workers aged 60-75 years, with a baseline survey conducted in September 2022 and a follow-up survey in October 2023. A total of 2257 participants who did not have chronic lower back pain in the baseline survey were included in the analysis, and the risk factors for chronic lower back pain were examined by logistic regression analysis. RESULTS The median age of the analyzed participants was 63.0 years, and the incidence of chronic lower back pain was 9.0%. Logistic regression analysis revealed that poor sleep habits (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.21-2.26), poor eating habits (aOR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.03-2.01), no physical activity (aOR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.00-2.09), and high stress (aOR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.13-2.32) were significantly associated with the occurrence of chronic lower back pain. CONCLUSION A comprehensive multidisciplinary collaboration program incorporating the assessment and management of lifestyle habits and mental health issues should be developed and implemented to prevent chronic lower back pain in older workers.