Year: 2018
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The broad aim of this thesis was to contribute towards a better understanding of the relationship between physical activity and chronic low back pain (LBP). To achieve this aim, a series of studies which employed a variety of research designs is presented. Initially, we investigated if different types and intensities of physical activity, as well as sedentary behaviour, is associated with chronic LBP. Moreover, case-control twin studies are introduced and described as a powerful research design in chronic LBP, with this methodology providing valid estimates of the influences of factors on chronic LBP. Likewise, the influence of familial factors, such as the presence of parental chronic spinal pain, on the prognosis of offspring with chronic spinal pain is also explored. Furthermore, this thesis investigated whether offspring lifestyle behaviour, such as engagement in leisure physical activity, modifies this association. Lastly, the thesis reported on the design and feasibility findings of a randomised controlled trial for chronic LBP patients after treatment discharge, with the intervention involving a patient-centred physical activity program, using a behavioural change approach, and supported using technology. The findings of this thesis showed that leisure and occupational physical activity are likely to have a different impact on chronic LBP. Also, it showed that sedentary behaviour is associated with chronic LBP, but this association is weak and disappears when genetics and shared environmental factors are accounted for. Moreover, the thesis showed that parental chronic spinal pain significantly influences the prognosis of spinal pain in the offspring. Finally, results from the randomised controlled trial suggested that the physical activity approach is feasible for a population suffering from chronic LBP following treatment discharge and is likely to reduce healthcare utilisation and increase physical activity goal attainment.
Author: Anita B. Amorim
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funders: Fundación Séneca, Norges Teknisk-Naturvitenskapelige Universitet, Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Fundación Mapfre, Helse Midt-Norge, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, National Health and Medical Research Council, Ciência sem Fronteiras, Norwegian Institute of Public Health
OpenAlex ID: W3022892729