Aims: To describe the occupational implications and impact of low back pain (LBP) in a birth cohort now aged 26.
Methods: The LBP data were collected by an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Study members were asked about the prevalence and frequency of LBP and, for the worst episode, details were sought on occupation, time off work or job limitation, the severity of the discomfort, and disability.
Results: The cohort comprised 980 individuals, and 969 individuals answered the questionnaire. Of these 969 individuals, 524 (54%) experienced LBP in the previous 12 months, with a modal frequency of three or more times a year. For the 448 individuals with a current occupation, there was no difference in the distribution of LBP between those with professional, clerical, and technical jobs and those with production or trades jobs. Fifty-six individuals had to have time off work (the majority for less than 7 days), and 13 individuals could not look after themselves because of pain. Based on data gathered on 26 year olds, the cost to the economy is estimated as NZ500 million dollars per annum.
Conclusion: LBP is prevalent and disabling even in young people, and has high costs. The natural history of the disorder is still largely unknown, but work does play a part. Although getting a person back to work may still be the best treatment, it is important to address the workplace factors.