This is a cross-sectional study based on an online survey. The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence and severity of low back pain (LBP) among lower limb amputation (LLA) patients and to identify risk variables associated with this condition. The prevalence of LBP in the amputated population compared to the non-amputated population remains unknown.
Given the complex character of LBP, it is important to investigate potential factors that can affect its presence and intensity in order to provide a firm foundation on which to design a better rehabilitation pathway for the management of these individuals. The 6 components of the online questionnaire were as follows: informed consent of the study, demographic information, comorbid conditions; medical history; a medical history of LLA; a medical history of LBP; and acceptance of the amputation.
The study had 239 respondents (mean age (SD): 49.2 (11.5); female participation rate: 11%) between March and June of 2021/22. This study found that 70% of LLA had experienced LBP in the year prior to amputation and 82% had experienced LBP after amputation. A logistic regression with a backward technique showed that participants who had issues in the not affected leg presented 1.58 (95% CI: 0.70; 2.45) times higher odds of developing LBP following the amputation.
This research suggests that lower limb amputees have a higher prevalence of LBP than the general population, with comparable pain levels and occurrences. As a population, Americans have the highest rate of inactivity, with the majority of adults not participating in any organized sports. There is a dire need for innovative approaches to funding physical activity education for this demographic.
Source: journals.lww.com/spinejournal/Fulltext/2022/11150/Low_Back_Pain_in_People_With_Lower_Limb.8.aspx
