LOW-BACK-PAIN IN INDUSTRY - AN OLD PROBLEM REVISITED

Abstract

Low-back pain is a major occupational health problem. Risk factors predisposing to the development of low-back pain were discussed. These included individual risk factors, i.e., age, sex, anthropometry, musculoskeletal abnormalities, muscle strength and physical fitness, psychological factors and previous attacks of low-back pain and workplace factors, i.e. heavy work, lifting, bending and slipping. Programs for prevention were evaluated. These included selection of workers, education and training regarding lifting methods, design of lifting jobs and fitness training. Limitations of the studies of these programs were discussed. Preemployment strength testing and ergonomic job design appeared to offer the greatest promise.