Characteristics of patients with low back pain and the variety of the impacts depending on gender and body weight : A cross-sectional secondary analysis

Low back pain (LBP) is the most common musculoskeletal disorder which affects several aspects of a person’s life. Many studies have described the predisposing factors for LBP, but there is insufficient evidence of the profile of the LBP population, for example the influence of gender or obesity on the course of existing LBP.The aim was to complete a cross-sectional analysis, based on datasets from two randomized controlled trials conducted among people with LBP. The objectives were to describe and explore differences and associations within the sample regarding gender and participants’ weight.A combined dataset was constructed from two RCT studies. Demographical and clinical characteristics were described and used to compare for differences and associations.The population was 107 participants; mean age 46.1 (±SD 14.7) years. Between genders there was statistically significant difference in physical activity and functional disability. When compared between the weight categories, a difference in LBP intensity was found.The results imply that women tend to perceive higher levels of functional disability and have lower levels of physical activity then men. They also suggest that higher body weight seemed to influence pain intensity. Research is needed to better understand the impact LBP has on peoples’ lives.