An evaluation of low back pain among farmers in Ireland

Abstract

Background Low back pain (LBP) is the most commonly reported musculoskeletal disorder among farmers. There is limited research regarding LBP among farmers in Ireland. Aims To explore attributed causes of LBP, investigate the relationship between LBP and personal and work-related factors and measure the impact of LBP. Methods A questionnaire survey of Irish farmers was conducted on farmers from each of the main farm enterprise systems in Ireland. Data were analysed using chi-square tests, t-tests, Mann–Whitney tests and logistic regression models. Results There were 600 farmers included in the survey with 100 from each of the six main farm systems. Lifting/pulling/pushing was identified as the most commonly attributed cause of LBP. In the multiple regression analysis the variables found to be associated with LBP included farm size and self-rated health. The odds ratios (OR) of LBP were greater among operators of medium and large farms [(OR = 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04–2.22 and OR = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.16–3.98, respectively] compared with smaller farms (P < 0.05). Those who perceived health as ‘good’ (OR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.14–2.33) by comparison with a rating of ‘very good’ had greater odds of LBP (P < 0.01). Some farmers changed work habits, sought help and needed time off work due to LBP. Conclusions Lifting was identified as the main attributed cause for LBP. LBP leads to work disability that necessitated farmers changing work habits, getting help and needing time off work. In order to reduce LBP-related disability among farmers in the future, work practices involving lifting need to be further investigated.