Factors that increase the Chances of
Developing Low Back Pain and Sciatica

Low back pain (LBP) is a common condition associated with disability and work absenteeism worldwide. The costs and economic burden of LBP are substantial. Identifying risk factors for LBP can inform prevention and management strategies.

Various individual and environmental factors have been linked to an increased risk of low back pain (LBP). These factors can be categorized as individual characteristics, physical stress on the spine, poor general health, and psychological stress. Previous studies focusing on subsets of these risk factors have been criticized for their narrow scope.

This umbrella review analyzes the risk factors linked to low back pain (LBP) and sciatica. The included systematic reviews varied in quality. The findings reveal that individual characteristics, poor general health, physical stress, and psychological stress significantly increase the risk of LBP and sciatica.

Among the 54 examined risk factors, there are several modifiable ones that could be targeted for prevention interventions. Examples include severe sleep problems, extended driving time, and prolonged standing/walking.

This umbrella review analyzes the risk factors linked to low back pain (LBP) and sciatica. The included systematic reviews varied in quality. The findings reveal that individual characteristics, poor general health, physical stress, and psychological stress significantly increase the risk of LBP and sciatica.

Among the 54 examined risk factors, there are several modifiable ones that could be targeted for prevention interventions. Instances encompass severe sleep difficulties, prolonged periods of driving, and extended durations of standing or walking.

A study reported by literature stated that poor general health and various individual, psychological, and physical risk factors are associated with both low back pain (LBP) and sciatica. Sleep problems contribute to the risk of future LBP, as sleep quality and pain intensity are interconnected.

Physical stress, such as lifting, can lead to LBP due to the mechanical loads exerted on the lower back. Psychological stress is also a significant risk factor, potentially linked to shared pathways with depression and pain.

However, the relationship is complex, influenced by factors like personality traits, cognitive styles, physiology, and social support.

Gaining a better understanding of the risk factors for low back pain (LBP) is important to develop more effective strategies for prevention. Our study identified several significant risk factors associated with LBP, some of which are often overlooked by clinicians and policymakers.

Recognizing these lesser-known factors provides a logical basis for the development of more impactful prevention strategies. For example, our review identified modifiable risk factors that can be targeted for interventions to reduce the risk of LBP.

Healthcare professionals can utilize this information to educate patients about avoiding these risk factors and actively monitor their exposure to minimize the occurrence of LBP.