Back Pain and Schoolbags among Adolescents in Abha City, Southwestern Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The incorrect carriage of schoolbags and heavy bags may result in back pain (BP) in adolescents. Our objective was to assess the problem of BP and associated factors among adolescents. This was a cross-sectional study targeting intermediate and secondary school adolescents in Abha City, Saudi Arabia. An anonymous questionnaire for BP was used. Student body weight and the weight of their full schoolbag were measured. The study included 876 adolescents. An overall prevalence of BP of 39.4% (95% CI: 35.3–43.7) was found. Upper BP (UBP), middle BP (MBP), and lower BP (LBP) amounted to 14.5%, 13.4%, and 11.5%, respectively. Associated significant factors with MBP were carrying the bag on one side compared to on the back (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.20–3.73) and being at intermediate level compared to secondary (aOR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.04–2.40). On the other hand, gender and schoolbag weight/body weight percent were not found to be significantly associated with MBP. None of the studied factors were significantly associated with overall BP, UBP, or LBP. BP is a prevalent among adolescents in southwest Saudi Arabia. One-sided schoolbag carriage is a significant associated factor for middle back pain. Parents and teachers should encourage students to consider the correct way to carry schoolbag.

Vitamin D Deficiency and Clinically Detected Scoliosis among Male Adolescents at High-Altitude Area in Southwestern Saudi Arabia

“…Another explanation for the role of Vitamin D in the development of scoliosis was made by another review study which postulated that Vitamin D levels at high-altitude areas are decreased and delays the onset of puberty which, in turn, increases the vulnerability of vertebral column and increases the prevalence of scoliosis [28]. This could explain the observed higher prevalence of scoliosis among male adolescents in Abha City [6] which located at high altitude [11]. Identifying the role of Vitamin D in the development of scoliosis could suggest the preventive role of Vitamin D supplementation.…”

“…Out of 417 surveyed adolescents, we identified 90 positive adolescents. More details of this cross-sectional study were published before [6]. Of the identified positive cases, 62 persons approved to provide a blood sample.…”

“…Screening of students was clinically accomplished in an isolated place to keep the privacy and self-respect of the students [6]. The Adam's forward bending test joined with the measurement of angle of trunk inclination (ATI) by scoliometer (Orthopedic Systems Inc., Union City, California, USA) was executed, while permitting the upper limbs to suspend freely with the palms opposed in a comfortable way [12].…”

“…A recent study in Iran published in 2018 found a prevalence of clinical scoliosis of 10.4% among schoolchildren [5]. A local study in Abha City found a higher prevalence rate of 19.1% among adolescents [6].…”

Implementation of a Classroom Program of Physiotherapy among Spanish Adolescents with Back Pain: A Collaborative Study

“…There is growing concern among teachers, health professionals, and parents regarding the increase in back pain among adolescents [ 1 , 2 ]. An investigation recently undertaken in 2019 concludes that chronic back pain is a considerable public health worry [ 3 ] which has consequences at both educational and health levels; this has a significant impact on health system costs [ 4 ] and consumes considerable healthcare services [ 5 ]. A recent study carried out in 2020 finds that back pain during this period of life is a matter of concern since it has health implications in adulthood [ 5 , 6 ].…”