Complaints of musculoskeletal pain (especially low back pain)
account for more than 300 million physician visits annually
in the U.S.
alone, despite advances in research, treatment and rehabilitation.
More than 50% of women experience at least one episode of
low back pain (LBP) by age 18; 50% of men experience the same
by age 20.
In a study designed to investigate potential workplace factors
contributing to musculoskeletal pain, 6,626 men completed
a questionnaire and physical and psychological examinations
at age 18 (1979-1980). In 1999, 6,266 of the original subjects
were located and completed a follow-up questionnaire. Both
the baseline and follow-up questionnaires focused on back
and neck pain and exposure to physical load in the work environment;
the follow-up questionnaire also contained a self-administered
test of physical function.
A significantly higher risk of frequent back, neck and/or
shoulder problems was noted at follow-up in men who performed
heavy work or who described a "great effect of back pain on
everyday activities" at baseline. Specifically, early back
pain causing work absence, reduced activity, and heavy workload
corresponded with higher risk for future back pain.
What can you do to combat musculoskeletal pain? For tips
on prevention and management of this all-too-common condition,
schedule an appointment with your doctor of chiropractic!
For more information on back pain, visit https://www.chiroweb.com/find/tellmeabout/backpain.html.
Reference:
Hellsing A-L, Bryngelsson I-L. Predictors of musculoskeletal
pain in men. A twenty-year follow-up from examination at enlistment.
Spine 2000: Vol. 25, No. 23, pp3080-86.
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