Abstract
Back pain is common, with quotes of lifetime prevalence ranging from 50% to 80% and point prevalence of 15% to 30%. There is scarce data within the British Military.
A prospective observational study evaluated the prevalence of back pain and its impact on work in a deployed population on OP TELIC 13. 1000 questionnaires were distributed over 4 days, 768 were returned. Additionally, clinical data was collected from the ward, aero-medical, and physiotherapy dept for the period September 2008- February 2009.
Overall prevalence of back pain was 33.4% (257). A greater prevalence occurred in the combat arms (41.7%, p=0.01) and those of over 12 years service (44%, p=0.004). No statistical difference was found with rank, or BMI. 74 people (9.6%) had developed new onset back pain since deploying. Within the new pain group 10/74, (13%) were experiencing either ‘some’ or ‘great’ difficulty at work. Recurrent pain occurred in 38.9% of the whole sample, with an increased prevalence in those of over 12 years service (58% p< 0.001). Back pain constituted 23% (137/583) of the physiotherapy dept case-load, 6.6%, (25/378) of ward admissions and 0.04% (5/119) of aero-medical patients.
This study shows that back pain is a major problem among deployed personnel, but can be managed with timely medical input, and is rarely the indication for aero-medical evacuation. Adequate resources are required to maintain operational effectiveness. Further studies should be undertaken to assess if back pain persists after deployment.
The abstracts were prepared by Major N. J. Ward ramc. Correspondence should be addressed to him at nickjward72@hotmail.com
