Lumbar back pain as a problem in occupational medicine

Abstract

This thesis presents a narrative review of the global public health problem of lumbar back pain (LBP), the most common occupational musculoskeletal disorder and a leading cause of disability worldwide. The author argues that both the onset and persistence of LBP among workers result from the complex interplay of physical and psychosocial factors such as heavy workload, low job control, and limited social support. The paper aims to (1) outline the global and occupational prevalence of LBP, (2) analyze its multifactorial risk factors, and (3) assess the effectiveness of preventive strategies. Drawing on current evidence, it concludes that integrated ergonomic and behavioral interventions can meaningfully reduce the burden of LBP and improve long-term worker health. The synthesis results in an evidence-based framework that summarizes key findings relevant to comprehensive, multi-modal strategies for reducing LBP incidence and enhancing long-term worker health.