Physical activity and health-related quality of life in chronic low back pain patients: A cross-sectional study Rehabilitation, physical therapy and occupational health

Abstract

Background: The aim of the present study was to identify the relationship of physical activity (PA) and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in patients suffering from low back pain (LBP). Methods: The present evaluation was conducted as a cross-sectional study based on baseline data of an randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of an intervention promoting PA. Patients answered a questionnaire on domain specific PA (GPAQ) and HRQoL (EQ-5D-5 L). Furthermore, sociodemographic and indication-specific variables as well as work-related aspects were assessed. Associations of PA and HRQoL were estimated by means of regression analysis: one regression model only included domain specific PA (model 1) and a second regression model additionally included further variables (model 2). Results: 412 patients completed the questionnaire. Model 1 showed opposed effects of workplace and leisure time PA: while workplace PA showed a negative association (β∈=∈-0.064; p∈=∈0.04), a positive association of leisure time PA could be proved (β∈=∈0.068; p∈=∈0.01). Model 2 showed that only the variables "current work ability" (β∈=∈-0.030; p∈