An exploration of culture dependent modifiable risk factors for low back pain in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: - developing an integrated preventative model

Abstract

Background: The magnitude of LBP has increased in recent years. It has remained neglected with profound negative impact on the society. The risk factors continue to increase throughout communities as a result of limited preventive methods. Aim: The aim of this study was to offer in-depth exploration of cultural and social factors in vulnerability to LBP in order to develop a culturally sensitive integrated preventative model in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: A sequential explanatory mixed methods research design was employed to investigate the complex phenomenon of the study. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected through a combination of data collection tools that included interviewer administered questionnaires and semi-structured interviews from both the back patients and healthcare providers in each of the selected public hospitals. Participants with back pain and healthcare providers working in the public hospitals were identified and sampled through a simple random sampling and purposive sampling technique, respectively. Findings: In the first phase, 170 participants took part in the study. Back pain is a multifactorial disorder, where the contributions of bio-medical and cultural factors for its occurrence are noteworthy. Chi square analysis showed a statistical association between seventeen variables of interest related to the participant group of individuals affected by LBP. In the second phase, back patients perceived that they were predisposed to LBP due to lack of knowledge and awareness on available prevention methods. Additionally, healthcare providers were blamed for their limited involvement in awareness-building about the severity and impacts of LBP. The low awareness rates were associated with increased risk of the development of LBP among the productive group of the community members. Conclusions: Prevention of LBP should not be seen as only involving bio-medical factors bust also other influences that include cultural and social factors. The emergent model has the benefit of integrating bio-medical, cultural and social modifiable factors for the prevention of LBP.