Chronic Low Back Pain Manifestation among Bank Workers in Southern Nigeria: A Current Disorder Exacerbated by Long Hours on Uncomfortable Chairs

Abstract

Banks play key roles in the economies of the world. The bank industry determines the growth of economies in all countries, as a result, workers in this industry are subjected to conditions geared towards getting the highest degree of performance from them consistently. Most of their time is spent sitting down, using computers, assuming bent postures, doing repetitive work, and sometimes without enough breaks in-between hours can predispose them to occupational hazards. This study aims to determine the prevalence of chronic low back pain among bank workers in Port Harcourt Metropolis through its associated risk factors. The study design was descriptive cross-sectional. The sample (N=332) consisted of 332 employees from twelve banks. A self-administered, closed-ended, structured questionnaire was used to collect data, and a Chi-square test (p=0.05) and odds ratio with a corresponding 95 % confidence interval was obtained. Results:  Showed significant relationship between age and chronic low back pain [OR=2.87; 95 % CI=1.75 – 4.72; p=0.001], length of time in seated position had significant relationship between workers that sat for six hours and above and chronic LBP (OR=1.89; p=0.01; 95 % CI: 1.16-3.06). Also, respondents who do not sit in a comfortable seat at the office were 2.60 times more at odds of experiencing chronic low back pain compared to respondents whose seats are comfortable (OR=2.60; p=0.001; 95% CI: 1.51-4.45). Conclusion: This study shows that the risk factors of a long hour of sitting, uncomfortable chair, bent posture leads to chronic low back pain over time. Therefore, it is recommended that proper break time be observed, right ergonomics to prevent twisting the back.