Prevalence, Impact, and Coping Mechanisms of Low Back Pain Among Practising Radiographers in Kano

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: This study investigated the prevalence, impact, and coping strategies concerning low back pain among practising radiographers in Kano State, Nigeria. The objectives were to assess the prevalence of low back pain, identify potential risk factors, and explore the impact and coping mechanisms among radiographers. METHOD: A questionnaire was employed to gather demographic information, details about tasks or activities performed, and potential causes and prevalence of low back pain among practising radiographers in Kano State. Out of 120 distributed questionnaires, 102 were collected and analysed. Statistical analysis was conducted to explore associations between personal factors, tasks performed, prevalence, and severity of low back pain. RESULTS: The study revealed that 56.9% of practising radiographers had experienced low back pain in the past year, while 41.2% were experiencing it at the time of the research. Various factors were identified as potential causes of low back pain among radiographers, including job-related tasks, job stress, and posture. Additionally, the duration of work hours in the department contributed to low back pain among radiographers. CONCLUSION: Implementing new technologies could mitigate unnecessary bending and twisting during procedures, reducing the risk of low back pain among radiographers. Evidence-based strategies should be employed to optimise procedures for radiographers. Furthermore, promoting personal health consciousness among radiographers, especially those working across multiple hospitals, is essential for effectively preventing and managing low back pain.