Investigating Low Back Pain Amongst Caregiving Mothers of Children with Cerebral Palsy at NIRM, Islamabad

Abstract

Background: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of low back pain among mothers of children with cerebral palsy. To determine the frequency of low back pain among mothers of children with cerebral palsy and to evaluate the severity of symptoms and impact of CP children on mother's LBP. Material and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was performed using demographic data, the Numeric Pain Rating Scale tool was used to assess the severity of back pain, and the ODI questionnaire was used to assess the low back pain disability. The 105 study participants were the mothers visiting NIRM for their cerebral palsy children rehabilitation in the Physical Therapy department. The ODI tool assessed the restrictions in daily activities due to low back. Data was analyzed through frequency tables in SPSS version 22. Results: Low back pain is prevalent (n=3, mean+ SD, p≤0.05) among mothers of children with cerebral palsy in outdoor visitors of NIRM, Islamabad. Conclusion: This study concluded a statistically high prevalence of low back pain and functional limitations, affecting the quality of life and daily life activities.

Keywords: Numeric Pain Rating Scale; Low back pain; Oswestry disability index; Functional disability; Cerebral palsy