THU0529 The comparison of physical activity level in pregnant women with and without low back pain
Authors: E. Üzelpasacı, S. Topuz, C. Orhan, E. Baran, G. Nakip, S. Özgül, S. Beksaç, T. Akbayrak
Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2018)

<h3>Background</h3> Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems during pregnancy that occurs due to a combination of mechanical, hormonal, circulatory and psychological factors. The changes in the load, body mechanics and centre of gravity, increased levels of relaxin, and decreased venous circulation in the pelvic and lumbar region may contribute to LBP in pregnant women.<sup>1,2</sup> It has been reported that the prevalence of LBP ranges between 50% and 80%. Pregnant women suffer from LBP may experience significant physical, psychological and social problems which adversely affect their quality of life.<sup>3</sup> <h3>Objectives</h3> The aim of the study was to compare the physical activity level of pregnant women with and without LBP. <h3>Methods</h3> A total of 151 pregnant women without obstetric and medical complications were included in this study. Sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics of the participants were assessed with a standart questionnaire. The presence of LBP was recorded as "yes" and "no". The level of physical activity was assessed with the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ). The PPAQ is self-administered and asks respondents to report the time spent participating in 32 activities including household/caregiving, occupational, sports/exercise, transportation and inactivity. Independent samples t test was used to determine whether there was a difference in physical activity level between two independent groups (Group 1: Pregnant women with LBP, Group 2: Pregnant women without LBP). <h3>Results</h3> 77 pregnant women (mean age: 29.28±5.14 years, mean body mass index (BMI): 25.95±3.86 kg/m<sup>2</sup>) had no LBP. However, 74 pregnant women (mean age: 29.22±4.90 years, BMI: 26.85±2.78 kg/m<sup>2</sup>) have experienced LBP. There was no statistically significant difference in gestational week between two groups (p&gt;0.05). Exercise-sports activity (mean: 5.69±7.29 MET–h.week<sup>-1</sup>) and vigorous activity (mean: 2.39±3.80 MET–h.week<sup>-1</sup>) scores of PPAQ were significantly lower in the pregnants with LBP than in those without LBP. Other activity scores were similar between groups (p&gt;0.05). <h3>Conclusions</h3> The presence of LBP during pregnancy causes decreased levels of sports and exercise activities in the pregnant women while household/caregiving and occupational activities are being carried out. LBP can be a barrier to perform physical activities and exercises for pregnant women. Therefore, it should be treated with appropriate methods and pregnant women should be encouraged to regularly participate to exercise programs. <h3>References</h3> [1] Ryan, Cormac G, et al. Individuals with chronic low back pain have a lower level, and an altered pattern, of physical activity compared with matched controls: an observational study. Australian Journal of Physiotherapy2009; 55(1): 53–58. [2] Katonis P, et al. Pregnancy-related low back pain. Hippokratia2011;15(3):205. [3] Lima ACDN, Oliveira FBD, Avolio GP, Silva GDD, et al. Prevalence of low back pain and interference with quality of life of pregnant women. Revista Dor2017;18(2):119–123. <h3>Acknowledgements</h3> None. <h3>Disclosure of Interest</h3> None declared