Prevalence and associated risk factors of low back pain among users of a primary health care clinic serving semi-urban and rural settlements in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most frequent musculoskeletal conditions and a common work-related health problem. In South Africa, people from lower socio-economic strata are involved in physical labour and also have unequal access to health services. There is minimal data on the prevalence of LBP in these communities. This study determined the prevalence and associated risk factors of LBP among public sector health care users in a semi-urban/rural area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. METHODS: The study was conducted at a primary health care clinic in the Umdoni municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Convenience sequential sampling was used. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was utilized due to literacy constraints. Participants (n=400) answered the questionnaire in either English or isiZulu. RESULTS: The lifetime prevalence of LBP was 79.3%. Female gender and lifting heavy objects were associated with LBP. The direct impact of LBP was faced in the work place resulting in absenteeism, often followed by unemployment. CONCLUSION: In this setting, where the prevalence of LBP was high, specialized treatments for LBP were not available at the primary health care facility. Incorporation of such treatments will be useful, for people in lower socio-economic strata, to overcome the burden of LBP.