Self-reported physical activity level and associated factors among patients with non-specific chronic low back pain

Non-Specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that leads to impaired physical activity (PA) level and functional limitation, which might cause disability. This study evaluated the self-reported PA level and associated factors among NSCLBP patients. This cross-sectional study involved 57 patients purposively recruited from the out-patient physiotherapy clinics of two tertiary hospitals. A self-structured questionnaire, long form of International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire and Modified A</strong>ssessing L</strong>evels of Ph</strong>ysical A</strong>ctivity and fitness (ALPHA) environmental questionnaires were administered to assess the patient’s socio- demographic/clinical profile, PA level, disability level and environmental characteristics respectively. Pearson Chi-square and Spearman rank correlation were used to determine the associations between the variables of interest. Alpha level was set at p <0.05. Males had a higher JRPA, TRPA and LTPA. Females had a higher DGPA. Age was significantly negatively moderately correlated with JRPA (p=0.001), TRPA (p=0.016), DGPA (p=0.021) and LTPA (p=0.007). Highest Educational level was significantly positively moderately correlated with JRPA (p=0.001) and LTPA (p=0.002). Pain intensity and disability had a significant negative weak correlation with TRPA (p=0.001) and LTPA (p=0.048), respectively, while sidewalks availability was significantly positively moderately correlated with LTPA (p=0.001). Crime safety at day (p=0.001) and at night (p=0.024) was significantly moderately negatively correlated with LTPA. The PA level of NSCLBP patients was moderate and influenced by socio-demographic, clinical and environmental factors. These factors should be considered in the management of these patients to encourage and promote PA participation.