iarjhcp

IARJHCP

2789-6048

https://doi.org/10.47310/iarjhcp.2022.v02i02.003

Knowledge about preventive factors & Practices followed in case of low backache among Ortho OPD patients in Civil Hospital Theog, District Shimla

Abhinay

Sharma

Sachin

Kanwar

Sheetal

Thakur

Background: Today, it is seen that a large portion of the population is affected by low back ache (LBA). It is a widespread issue and the primary contributor to disability globally. This study was undertaken with the objective to assess the knowledge about preventive factors & Practices followed for low backache among Ortho OPD patients in civil hospital Theog, District Shimla. Material & Methods: Between August 2018 and October 2019, a cross-sectional study was done on Ortho OPD patients at the civil hospital Theog who were chosen using a convenience sampling technique. A self-administered, pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather information about their sociodemographic traits, awareness of LBA prevention, and practises they adhered to. Epi info v7 software was used to evaluate the data using the necessary statistical tests. Results: In the current study, 52.5 percent (210) of the patients were under the age of 40, compared to 47.5 percent (190), who were above the age of 40 years. 44 percent (176) of patients were female, whereas 56 percent (224) of patients were male. Maximum 332 (83%) of the total patients said that regular exercise helps prevent low back pain, followed by maintaining good posture with 235 (58.75%), taking calcium and vitamin D supplements with 135 (33.75%), and avoiding heavy lifting with 120. (30.0 percent). Maximum 359 patients (89.75%) reported using painkiller gels to treat low back pain, followed by 336 patients (84%) who took painkillers, 255 patients (63.75%) who practised yoga and 227 patients (56.75%) who took calcium and vitamin D supplements (55.25 percent). Conclusion: Many survey participants were still unaware about preventive factors for LBA. There is a need for community health education programmes about preventive measures for LBA. We may preserve our backs and avoid back discomfort by maintaining good posture, sitting and standing up straight, exercising frequently, maintaining an optimal weight, taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, and avoiding heavy lifting.                