Back pain among medical students and its associated risk factors

Objective: The aim of the study was to identify the frequency and risk factors associated with low back pain among medical and dental students. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Hitec Medical Institute, Taxila from May to October 2024. Patients and Methods: A validated questionnaire was used to collect data from 207 students. Data was analyzed to assess the prevalence of low back pain and its contributing factors. The chi-square test was applied to determine the association between exercise and back pain. The mean age and BMI of participants were 21.36 ±0.501 and 19.2 ±0.613 respectively. Results: A higher prevalence of pain was observed among female students (63.3%). Third-year students reported more back pain compared to first- and second-year students. Key contributing factors included prolonged sitting (25%), uncomfortable seating, exam-related stress (18.4%), and improper posture (17.4%). A significant association was found between regular exercise and reduced back pain (P = 0.005). Conclusion: Back and neck pain are common among medical and dental students with significant contributing factors such as prolonged sitting and poor posture. Implementing strategies like posture correction, ergonomic interventions, and promoting regular physical activity may help alleviate pain and improve musculoskeletal health in this population.