Low back pain among college students in a public Saudi university: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is the most prevalent orthopedic condition worldwide. University students are more likely to have this issue due to their demanding and time-consuming course load. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of LBP and the factors that lead to it among students at the Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU). Methods: This cross-sectional study targeted undergraduate students using an online self-administered questionnaire. A descriptive analysis method was conducted. Results: Of the 830 students who completed the survey, 71.4% were females. About two-thirds were aged between 18 and 22 years. Our study shows that 68.2% had complained of recent LBP. The most significant prevalent factor associated with LBP among IMAMU students, 94.2%, was prolonged sitting. Heavy object lifting is 93.2%, and unhealthy seating/body position is 90.2%, which comes in second and third place. Those who complained about the discomfort of their lecture hall seats were shown to be dramatically more likely (5.549 times more) to develop LBP than students who did not. Students with a positive history of depression were significantly more prone (2.565-fold) to LBP. A positive family history of LBP and smoking cigarettes were found to increase the chance of developing LBP. Conclusion: LBP among IMSIU students is high, mainly because of prolonged sitting, heavy object lifting, and unhealthy sitting and/or body position. There is a strong association between LBP and a positive family history of LBP, smoking, and uncomfortable seats. Prevenive measures, such as an intervention program for university students, are required.