Addressing occupational low back pain (OLBP): The role of good posture and education

Abstract

Seven hundred and sixty five employees of a hospital were surveyed to determine causative and preventive factors for Occupational Low Back Pain (OLBP). Six hundred and fouty six employees (84%) completed and returned the survey instrument, of that number 518 persons (80%) -292 nurses, 43 doctors, 80 co-workers, 63 office/clerical workers, and 40 maintenance workers- reported instances of OLBP. Of individuals reporting instances of OLBP, 5 persons (1%) required rest and release from their normal duties during their workday, 52 persons (10%) reported absence from work because of OLBP, while 11 persons (2%) sought medical attention or hospitalization for OLBP. In the group surveyed, no individuals reported surgical intervention for OLBP, and OLBP was generally thought to be “slight.” Respondents indicated that learning “correct posture,” -posture designed to protect the lower back in the performance of their jobs- was important in preventing the occurrence of OLBP. To that extent, working conditions and worker education need to be improved in order to prevent and/or minimize instances of OLBP.