Abstract:

Background: Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) is a common health concern worldwide. It is the most prevalent musculoskeletal condition and one of the most common causes of disability in the developed nations. This study was conducted to determine the patterns of clinical presentation and factors associated with CLBP in patients who are attended at Orthopaedic Clinics of Bugando Medical Centre (BMC), Mwanza, Tanzania. Knowledge obtained will facilitate measures aimed at designing preventive measures.

Methodology: This was descriptive cross-sectional study conducted between July 2019 and November 2019 in the Orthopaedic Clinics of BMC and a structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel and STATA version 12

Results: A total of 228 candidates were enrolled in the study. Majority of the candidates were male 141 (61.84%), the mean age of the candidates was 51.8 (±14.2). 225 (98.68%) candidates had CLBP more when they are on exertion or during activities and (66.23%) of the candidates had CLBP when they are at rest. Radiculopathy to the lower limbs was reported by 192 (84.21%) candidates. Severity of CLBP was significantly associated with age, marital status, body mass index, previous back pain, prolonged work posture and heavy physical works with p < 0.05. All candidates had some functional disability. Majority had moderate functional disability.

Conclusion: CLBP mostly affects males of the working age group and majority present with Radicular neuropathic pain to the lower limbs. Moderate functional disability status was common to all candidates. Appropriate measures should be taken to prevent CLBP and so ergonomic assessment of work place and periodic counseling sessions towards the greater use of the back with appropriate posture are recommended.