Factors associated with non-specific low back pain in field hockey: a cross-sectional study of Premier and Division One players

Dobbin, Nicholas ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7508-1683, Getty, Craig and Digweed, Benn (2023) Factors associated with non-specific low back pain in field hockey: a cross-sectional study of Premier and Division One players. In: British Association for Sport and Exercise Medicine Conference 2023, 5 October 2023 - 6 October 2023, Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground, Manchester, United Kingdom. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Introduction and purpose: Several risk factors have been identified that alter risk of developing non-specific low back pain (LBP) in the general population. However, there is a lack of evidence around general and sport-specific factors associated with the odds of developing LBP in field hockey players, despite the prevalence being high (33-67%). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine what factors are associated with the risk of reporting non-specific LBP in field hockey. Materials and Methods: Using a cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was distributed to those who competed in the men’s and women’s Premier Division, Division 1 North and Division 1 South for field hockey. The questionnaire consisted of a participant information sheet, definitions sheet, participant characteristics, injury history, training-related factors, and work and personal factors. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the key factors associated with the odds of reporting LBP. Results: A total of 194 responses were received. Results from the logistic regression indicated that age (>25 years), playing internationally, use of a smaller stick, partaking in the drag flick, experiencing stiffness/tightness after hockey, training 0-2 and 3-5 hours per week, competing in two matches per week, lifting heavy objects at work, perceiving work to impact recovery, and experiencing a stressful life event were associated 1.43-7.39 greater odds of LBP. In contrast, being a male, being of smaller stature, perceived work to increase fatigue, perceiving sleep to be good quantity, and experiences less frequent job stress were associated with lower odds of non-specific LBP (odds ratio (OR) = 0.11 to 0.60). A summary of key factors is presented in Table 1. Conclusion: The results of this study provide seven prominent factors that medical professionals involved in field hockey can consider when identifying individual at greater or lesser risk of LBP, when developing screening processes, and when developing training practices.