Evidence from:
DE Feldman et al. American Journal of Epidemiology. July (2001) Vol. 154 #1 p 30.
A study of proposed risk factors for the development of LBP in adolescence. It is well established that previous episodes of LBP are prognostic of further problems. LBP in childhood increases the probability of LBP in subsequent years. Identification of risk factors for childhood LBP may lead to more effective prevention measures.
502 adolescents from Montreal were studied between 1995 and 1996 and followed up a year later.
LBP was defined as substantial , at least once a week within the past 6 months.
Assessment was made at 0, 6 months and 1 year.
At time zero 377 out of 502 had no LBP within the past 6 months but 65 of these developed LBP during the year.
Growth spurt (>5 cm a year) was a risk factor as was smoking and poor mental health.
Activity was not a risk factor. Muscle strength was not a risk factor, flexibility was not a risk factor.
Comment
The incidence of new LBP is around 18% among adolescents. At least half of these incident cases should expect LBP to recur in adult life.
Physical activity and fitness risk factors were not significant and may be insignificant at recurrence.