Influence of mental health and vitality on lower limb pain in hospital nurses: Prospective cohort study

This study examined the relationship between mental health, vitality, and lower limb pain intensity among female hospital nurses in Denmark. A group of 1185 nurses from 19 hospitals, with an average age of 48.3 years, was followed over one year. Baseline mental health and vitality were measured using the SF-36 subscales, and pain in the hip, knee, and ankle/foot regions was assessed on a 0–10 scale at follow-up. Cumulative logistic regression models were applied, adjusting for factors such as age, baseline pain, body mass index, smoking status, years in the profession, physical activity, daily patient transfers, and work conditions like recognition and influence. Results showed that nurses with low vitality were significantly more likely to report increased pain in the hips (OR = 2.70), knees (OR = 2.17), and ankles (OR = 1.63). Moderate vitality also correlated with higher pain in the hips and knees, while moderate and low mental health were linked to more severe knee pain (OR = 1.89). These findings highlight that psychological factors, such as vitality and mental health, could be involved in the development of lower limb musculoskeletal pain, alongside ergonomic concerns, underscoring the importance of holistic prevention strategies in this population.