Identifying the Relationship Between Low Back Pain, Physical Activity, Posture and Body Composition in Older Women

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a widespread and disabling condition affecting many older adults. Clinically, it is characterized by mild to severe pain accompanied by muscle tension, primarily in the lower back. Objective: This study aimed to establish correlations between LBP, physical activity, body composition, and posture in 114 women (mean age: 67.6 ± 5.68 years). Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design, LBP was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Physical activity (PA) was measured using a pedometer to count the steps taken. Spinal curvatures in the sagittal plane were examined with a Rippstein Plurimeter. Results: Regression analysis revealed significant correlations between the ODI and various factors, such as waist circumference (F (1,113) = 7.574, p = .007), Body mass index (BMI) (F(1,113) = 11.660, p = .001), and Total Fat (TF) (F (1,113) = 8.806, p = .004, R² = .072). A significant regression was also found between the ODI and Total Steps (TS) (F(1,113) = 4.446, p = .037). However, no associations were found between the ODI and Hip Circumference (HC), Waist Hip Ratio, (WHR) Thoracic Kyphosis (Thk), or Lumbar Lordosis (Ll) (F (1,113) = .290, p = .591, R² = .003). Conclusion: This study highlights the strong connection between LBP and health factors in older women. The findings of our study highlighted the importance of implementing effective intervention and prevention strategies to manage the clinical manifestation of LPB in the geriatric population. Healthcare providers can better support this population's well-being by focusing on targeted interventions.