Article

OBJECTIVE: To investigate associations of various bio-psychosocial factors with
bodily pain, physical func-tioning, and ability to work in low back pain. DESIGN:
Cross-sectional study. SUBJECTS: A total of 219 female healthcare workers with
recurrent non-specific low back pain. METHODS: Associations between several
physical and psychosocial factors and: (i) bodily pain, (ii) physical functioning
and (iii) ability to work were studied. Variables with statistically significant
associations (p < 0.05) in bivariate analysis were set within a generalized
linear model to analyse their relationship with each dependent variable. RESULTS:
In generalized linear model analysis, perceived work-induced lumbar exertion (p <
0.001), multi-site pain (p <0.001) and work-related fear-avoidance beliefs
(FAB-W) (p = 0.02) best explained bodily pain. Multi-site pain (p < 0.001),
lumbar exertion (p = 0.005), FAB-W (p = 0.01) and physical performance in
figure-of-eight running (p = 0.01) and modified push-ups (p = 0.05) best
explained physical functioning; FAB-W (p <0.001), lumbar exertion (p = 0.003),
depression (p = 0.01) and recovery after work (p = 0.03) best explained work
ability. In bivariate analysis lumbar exertion was associated with poor physical
performance. CONCLUSION: FAB-W and work-induced lumbar exertion were associated
with levels of pain, physical functioning and ability to work. Poor physical
performance capacity was associated with work-induced lumbar exertion.
Interventions that aim to reduce fear-avoidance and increase fitness capacity
might be beneficial.

Langue : ANGLAIS