Nonspecific low back pain among kyokushin karate practitioners

Abstract

Background and objective: Spinal pain is a common and growing problem, not only in the general population but also among athletes. Lifestyle, occupation, and incorrectly exerted effort have a significant impact on low back pain. To assess the prevalence of low back pain among those practicing Kyokushin karate, we take into account age, body weight, sex, length of karate experience, level of skill, and occupation. Materials and Methods: The study involved 100 people practicing Kyokushin karate, aged 18 to 44. A questionnaire developed for this study and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used. Results: The research showed the prevalence of low back pain among karate practitioners (55%), depending on age (R = −0.24; p = 0.015), body weight (χ2 = 16.7; p = 0.002), occupation (χ2 = 18.4; p = 0.0004), and overall length of karate experience (R = −0.28; p = 0.04). A correlation was also found between sex (χ2 = 22.3; p = 0.001), occupation (χ2 = 51; p = 0.0000), length of experience (R = −0,28; p = 0.04), karate skill level (R = 0.39; p = 0.003), and the intensity of pain defined using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Subjects with low back pain showed minimal (71%) and moderate (29%) disability according to the Oswestry index. Conclusions: Low back pain is common in karate practitioners and depends on age, weight, occupation, and length of karate experience. The intensity of low back pain is influenced by sex, occupation, overall length of training experience, and one’s level of karate skill. Lumbar spine ailments reduce functionality and quality of life to a small degree. Karate practitioners seldom seek treatment for spinal pains, and only few use physiotherapy and pharmacology.