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01-06-2006 | Original Article

Occupations associated with a high risk of self-reported back pain: representative outcomes of a back pain prevalence study in the Federal Republic of Germany

Authors: Sven Schneider, Slawomira Lipinski, Marcus Schiltenwolf

Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 6/2006

Abstract

Given the increasing medical and economic implications of back pain, occupation-specific prevalence data may provide important pointers for preventive programmes targeted at promoting preventive behaviour and improving conditions. The National German Health Survey is the first study to provide the basis for a representative nationwide analysis of back pain prevalence by occupational category. The net sample comprises a total of 3,488 earners aged 18–69. One in three earners in the Federal Republic of Germany (34%) experienced back pain during the 7 days prior to being interviewed. The 1-year prevalence rate is 60%. Occupational categories associated with a lower-than-average back pain prevalence are highly qualified professionals, senior management, and production occupations associated with a comparatively low degree of manual labour. In contrast, an above-average prevalence was identified for occupations associated with physically strenuous work involving one-sided postures, moving, carrying and holding heavy weights, and work typically performed in poor conditions or bad weather. Our data demonstrates significant inter-occupational differences in terms of self-reported back pain. The results underline the importance of measures to promote preventive behaviour and improve the working conditions of those in low-skill manual labour occupations.

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Title: Occupations associated with a high risk of self-reported back pain: representative outcomes of a back pain prevalence study in the Federal Republic of Germany
Authors: Sven Schneider
Slawomira Lipinski
Marcus Schiltenwolf
Publication date: 01-06-2006
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: European Spine Journal / Issue 6/2006
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-005-1015-2

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Occupations associated with a high risk of self-reported back pain: representative outcomes of a back pain prevalence study in the Federal Republic of Germany

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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