The effect of occupationally-related low back pain on functional activities among male manual workers in a construction company in Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

This study determined the prevalence as well as the effect of occupationally-related low back pain on the functional activities of workers in a construction company in Cape Town. A cross-sectional, descriptive survey using a validated questionnaire was carried out. The questionnaire comprising demographic data, low back pain symptoms information, functional limitations scale and the participation restriction scale was used as a closed ended interview guide. Workers suffered physical, emotional, fi nancial and functional problems with 41.5% reporting sickness absence. Lifting and bending were the most affected activities associated to low back pain (p<0.05) while walking/running, recreational activities and carrying out of everyday tasks were among the restricted activities. The one year prevalence of low back pain was 25%, comparable with that of developed countries. Occupationally-related low back pain is a challenge among construction workers which they perceive to cause serious functional activity limitation. All stakeholders must be procured for the prevention and management of occupationally-related low back pain in order to prevent functional activity limitations among construction workers. Physiotherapists should raise the levels of awareness and monitor construction activities on site in order to prevent disability at primary level.