The Relationship Between Pregnancy-Related Low Back Pain, Kinesiophobia, and Physical Activity in the Third Trimester

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between pregnancy-related low back pain, kinesiophobia, and physical activity during the third trimester of pregnancy. Methods: Fifty-one pregnant women between the ages of 18-40, at the gestational age of 27 weeks and above were included in the study. The intensity of pregnancy-related low back pain was assessed with the Numerical Pain Scale, kinesiophobia with the Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale, and physical activity levels with the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Results: Only 4 (7.8%) subjects had high levels of physical activity, 12 (23.5%) had moderate, and 35 (68.6%) had low levels of physical activity. A strong positive correlation was found between low back pain and kinesiophobia in the third trimester of pregnancy (r = 0.796; p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant relationship between low back pain and physical activity or between kinesiophobia and physical activity (r=– 0.097; p= 0.498 and r= – 0.212; p= 0.135 respectively). Conclusion: Pregnancy-related low back pain can cause kinesiophobia during pregnancy, and kinesiophobia may cause limitations of movements. Considering the negative effects of pregnancy-related low back pain and kinesiophobia during pregnancy, the evaluation of pain, and kinesiophobia by health professionals is important during this period.