Effects of socio-psychological stress on new and recurrent low back pain among Chinese community middle-aged women

This study aims to estimate the incidence of and recurrence of LBP among Hong Kong middle-aged women; to describe the characteristics and effects of current LBP; and also to clarify the relationship between socio-psychological stress and the incidence or recurrence of LBP among Hong Kong middle-aged women. An 18-month prospective study was conducted among Hong Kong community-based middle-aged Chinese women. Data was collected by face-to-face interview. The data included status and descriptions of the occurrence of LBP, sociodemographic factors, menopausal status, and socio-psychological stress. Socio-psychological stress covered social factors, stressful life events and self-reported nature of, and stress related to, housework/work. For the rate of LBP, 18-month incidence of new and recurrent LBP was 12% and 48%, respectively. For the psychosocial risk factors, we have observed an association between increased psychological stress related to housework or work within the 18-month period and the subsequent onset of both new and recurrent episodes of LBP (i.e. adjusted relative risk (RR) = 3.33 and adjusted RR = 0.54, respectively). Our results support the need for health education regarding self-assessment and management of LBP and equipping middle-aged women on how to cope with psychosocial stress and adverse life events.