Chronic Neck Pain and Its Relationship with Mental Stress: Is Regular Physical Exercise a Protective Factor?

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic neck pain (CNP) is a common complaint and a main cause of disability, being known its relationship with mental stress (ME). We aimed to know the prevalence of CNP in the Peruvian adult population, its relationship with stress, and to observe if regular physical exercise (PE) could be a protective factor. Methods: A nationwide survey was conducted. CNP was considered for those who answered having it at least once a week for the last six months, ME for those having at least five out of eight common symptoms, and the lack of regular PE for those having made physical exercise once a week or less. Results: A total of 1,244 adults responded. Prevalence of CNP was 20.9%. We found an odds ratio (OR) of 7.773 (95%CI, 4.656-12.980) between CNP and ME, and an OR of 1.152 (95%CI, 0.842-1.578) for the lack of regular PE. Values maintained after adjusting for covariates (age ≥25 years-old, female sex and socioeconomical level C/D/E). Conclusions: A fifth of the adult Peruvian population refer CNP, constituting a major health problem in this country. We found a strong association in people with ME, but regular PE is not associated as a protective factor.