Abstract
Introduction: Both physical activity and inactivity have been suggested as risk factors for LBP, but the current evidence is conflicting. In this study we evaluated how the level of leisure time physical activity and amount of sitting are associated with LBP in a general population of adolescents.
Methods: The study population consisted of 5999 boy and girl members of the Northern Finland 1986 Birth Cohort who responded to mailed questions at the age of 15–16 years. LBP during the past six months was classified as “No LBP”, “Reporting LBP” (not seeking medical help), or “Consultation for LBP”. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals obtained by multinomial logistic regression were adjusted for smoking and BMI.
Results: Being physically very active (more than six hours of brisk physical activity per week) was associated with increased prevalence of “Consultation for LBP” in both genders, and with “Reporting LBP” in girls, compared to being moderately active (2–3 hours of brisk physical activity per week). High amount of sitting associated with “Consultation for LBP” and “Reporting LBP” in girls, but not in boys.
Discussion: Very active participation in physical activities in both genders and high amount of sitting in girls, irrespective of the level of physical activity, were associated with reported LBP. Perhaps encouraging adolescents to physically moderately active lifestyle could diminish LBP. In addition, avoiding excessive sitting-based activities such as television watching and playing video games may be recommendable among girls.
Correspondence should be addressed to Mr J. O’Dowd, Honorary Secretary at SBPR c/o BOA, Royal College of Surgeons, 35–43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3PE.
