Vitamin D Levels and Related Factors in Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the 25-hydroxy vitamin D₃ [25OHD₃] levels and the associated factors in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain [LBP] in our region.

Methods: Sixty patients diagnosed with chronic nonspecific LBP and a control group of 30 healthy subjects were enrolled. The demographic characteristics were recorded and the serum 25OHD₃ level was measured. The severity of the LBP was measured with a visual analog scale. Milk and dairy product consumption, fish consumption, dressing style, exposure to the sunlight, and physical activity levels of the individuals in each group were recorded. The quality of life was evaluated with the Short Form 36. Depression status was evaluated through the Beck Depression Inventory. The Oswestry Disability Scale was used for the functional assessment of the patient group.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 30.58 ± 7.78 years and control group was 30.97 ± 6.70 years. The sun exposure and fish consumption were significantly higher in the control group. The scores from all the dimensions of the Short Form 36 [except for the mental health parameter] and Beck Depression Inventory were significantly lower in the patient group. The 25OHD₃ level was also significantly lower in the patient group. According to the Oswestry Disability Scale, the daily life of the patients was observed to be limited due to LBP.

Conclusions: In the patients with chronic LBP [CLBP], 25OHD₃ level is lower than the healthy controls. In CLBP, increasing incidence of depression, deterioration in the quality of life, and serious functional impairment are observed. Vitamin D levels should be evaluated and any deficiency should be treated in patients with CLBP.

• Chronic low back pain
• depression
• vitamin D deficiency
• quality of life

Acknowledgements

We give thanks to all participants in this study