Publication:

Assessment of depression, anxiety and quality of life in chronic low back pain patients in rural population

Background Chronic low back pain (CLBP) being one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders, has a clear impact on the psychological status of the patient; also studies have shown that Quality of Life (QOL) is hampered in CLBP cases. Several studies have been conducted recently on CLBP and its association with depression, anxiety and QOL, however, this study has been majorly surveyed on the urban population; a need was felt to perform a similar survey on the rural population. This stud aimed to assess the depression, anxiety and quality of life in patients with chronic low back pain in rural population.

Methods Total 60 participants were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria from the orthopedic department of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam College of Physiotherapy. PHQ 9, GAD-7 and WHOQOL-BREF Questionnaires were used in their local language (Marathi). Data was collected on sheet of paper, and a consent form was given to participants.

Results Results of PHQ-9, and GAD-7 obtained in the study revealed that 54 participants were severely depressed and 6 participants were moderately severe depressed. 50 participants of CLBP have severe anxiety issues, 8 participants have moderate anxiety and only 2 have mild anxiety. QOL was more affected in CLBP patient.

Conclusions This study concludes that there is high incidence of depression and anxiety in CLBP patients and have reduced QOL. Therefore, psychological counseling should be integral part of conventional CLBP treatment.