Sociophysical Predictors of Facet Joint Arthritis in a Mountain Farming Community: A Computed-tomography-based Analytical Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Arthritis of the diarthrodial zygapophysial joints, located in the posterior column of the spine, commonly known as facet joint arthritis (FJA) is a leading cause of back pain and related disability. In the literature, mainly the anatomy, innervation, diagnostic, and management part of FJA have been adequately published to date. Its etiology and association with various social and physical parameters remain underinvestigated. An insight into these associations can help develop a preventive strategy. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted to evaluate its relationship with various purported causative sociophysical factors. A total of 210 participants who underwent computed tomography for nonorthopedic complaints and met the inclusion criteria were consecutively enrolled. The sociophysical profile information was gathered through a structured questionnaire. FJA was defined as at least one joint affected by facet joint disease (Grade ≥2). The data collected were checked, edited, coded, and analyzed using the SPSS 25.0 version. Results: FJA was found in 74.3% of the study population. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the odds of having FJA were 6 times more in the participants who spent 4 h or more picking fruits, and vegetables (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.80–20.057) and 3 times more in participants whose daily milk intake was <250 mL (AOR = 3.044; 95% CI: 1.045–8.869). Smokers were found to be having significantly higher odds of having FJA than nonsmokers (AOR = 5.248; 95% CI: 1.927–14.292). FJA was found to be significantly higher in the illiterate participants (AOR = 9.736; 95% CI: 2.594–36.546) than in those who were educated above matric. Conclusion: Farm drudgery and prolonged abnormal postures are an important but not the sole cause of FJA in the mountain farming community. Other modifiable factors such as diet, smoking, and education also have a role to play.