Effects of sedentary lifestyle on the development of back pain in children and adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: Back pain is very prevalent among all sectors of the population. The prevalence varies according to age, sex, occupation, and so forth. Children are regarded as less vulnerable to suffering this kind of musculoskeletal conditions. However, some studies have shown relatively high prevalence among schoolchildren and adolescents. Previous studies failed to conclude any association between back pain and sedentary lifestyle, which has already been categorized as an important factor by the WHO. A new review is required to incorporate the most up-to-date studies in order to give a more comprehensive view of this topic. Method: Several databases were used to retrieve relevant epidemiological studies, including cross-sectional studies, cohort studies and case-control studies, by using predetermined key words and objective selection criteria. The quality of each study was assessed by using several criteria. Results: A total of 12 studies were included in this review, including 5 high-quality studies. Two out of the 5 high-quality studies provided significant evidence of association between back pain and sedentary lifestyle. In total, 8 studies showed some association. There was thus limited evidence to show the effect of sedentary lifestyle on the development of back pain. Discussion: Different study designs (recall duration, age distribution, data collection and so on) were used in each study included in this review. The conclusion of this new review was consistent with some previous ones. The dose-response relation in these studies was not found. There were still not enough local studies to help the policy modification of back health of local children. Conclusion: There is currently some evidence to illustrate the association between back pain and sedentary lifestyle in school children and adolescents, but it is not conclusive.