Published in:
Open Access
01-12-2016 | Research article
Prevalence of lumbar spondylosis and its association with low back pain among community-dwelling Japanese women
Authors:
Ritsu Tsujimoto, Yasuyo Abe, Kazuhiko Arima, Takayuki Nishimura, Masato Tomita, Akihiko Yonekura, Takashi Miyamoto, Shohei Matsubayashi, Natsumi Tanaka, Kiyoshi Aoyagi, Makoto Osaki
Published in:
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
|
Issue 1/2016
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Abstract
Background
Lumbar spondylosis is more prevalent among the middle-aged and elderly, but few population-based studies have been conducted, especially in Japan. The purpose of this study was to explore the prevalence of lumbar spondylosis and its associations with low back pain among community-dwelling Japanese women.
Methods
Lateral radiographs of the lumbar spine were obtained from 490 Japanese women ≥ 40 years old, and scored for lumbar spondylosis using the Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade at lumbar intervertebral level from L1/2 to L5/S1. Height and weight were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Low back pain in subjects was assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. Stiffness index (bone mass) was measured at the calcaneal bone using quantitative ultrasound.
Results
Prevalence of radiographic lumbar spondylosis for KL ≥ 2, KL ≥ 3 and low back pain were 76.7%, 38.8% and 20.0%, respectively. Age was positively associated with radiographic lumbar spondylosis (KL = 2, KL ≥ 3) and low back pain. Greater BMI was associated with lumbar spondylosis with KL = 2, but not with KL ≥ 3. Stiffness index was associated with neither radiographic lumbar spondylosis nor low back pain. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified radiographic lumbar spondylosis (KL ≥ 3) at L3/4, L4/5 and L5/S1 was associated with low back pain, independent of age, BMI and stiffness index.
Conclusion
Severe lumbar spondylosis at the middle or lower level may contribute to low back pain.