Quality of life of patients with chronic lower back pain

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic pain has become a common problem in primary care and can negatively impact the lives of patients. Objective: To evaluate and investigate the impact of chronic lower back pain on patients‘ quality of life (QoL) using quantitative and qualitative data. Methods: A standardized SF-36 quality of life questionnaire was used. The group included 161 respondents aged 18 and over, with chronic lower back pain, lasting at least 6 months, with a diagnosis of lumbosciatica radicular syndrome. The average age of the respondents was 49.8 years. Results: The RP (Role Physical) and DZ (change in health) had the lowest average score. The values of the individual domains of the sexes are comparable. The most significant difference is in the Physical Functioning domain, which was rated higher by women (W; d = 62.9; M; d = 52.3). All domains have significant correlations with age (p < 0.001), with the exception of VT – vitality, and MH – mental health. The statistical significance was also determined between Seniority (Employment) and RP – physical restrictions, Bodily Pain and Physical Component Summary. They worsen with seniority. All domain scores correlate with employment. A strong statistical relationship between Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary was demonstrated. Conclusions: The results show that the quality of life of patients with chronic lower back pain decreases significantly with age. Seniority deepens physical restrictions (Role Physical) and worsens Bodily Pain as well as Physical Component Summary.