Musculo-skeletal disorders of the lower back, in health workers of the rural district of Til-Til

Abstract

The workers of a rural hospital and a rural clinic were surveyed in order to ascertain the prevalence of low back pain. This was done in January 2004 and the Nordic Standardized Questionnaire designed for this specific problem was applied. Sixty percent of the workers had suffered one or more episodes of low back pain in the previous twelve months. This percentage was slightly higher among women. A proportion of 7.7% had had to be shifted from their tasks on account of this ailment.; 48 % were forced to reduce their occupational activities, and 43 %, their leisure time activities. In 42% of cases the duration of symptoms was equal to or less than one week. Only 13% visited a health professional on account of low back pain.