Comparative effect of driving side on low back pain due to Repetitive Ipsilateral Rotation: Comparative effect of driving side on low back pain

Objective: To determine the effects of repetitive ipsilateral rotation on low back pain among the taxi drivers of right and left hand drive.

Methods: A total of 1200 (600 Iran+600 Pakistan) male taxi drivers, aged between 20-60 years with work experience of more than one year were randomly selected and interviewed in Tehran (Iran) & Lahore (Pakistan) to fill self-administered questionnaires in Persian and Urdu languages which contained socio-demographic, work related and LBP characteristics. Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression models were employed for statistical analyses.

Results: Point, one week, one year and lifetime prevalence of LBP among right hand drive taxi drivers was 26.7%, 35.5%, 49.8% and 77.7% respectively. Point, one week, one year and lifetime prevalence of LBP among left hand drive taxi drivers was 37%, 42.7%, 53.5% and 72.3% respectively. Mean Numeric Pain rating scale (NPRS) score was 4.15 (SD=1.42) in Pakistan, while in Iran it was 4(SD=1.57). There was no significant difference regarding pain intensity (p=0.123) between drivers from both countries. Mean Roland-Morris Questionnaire (RMQ) score among drivers in Pakistan with LBP was 7.76(SD= 2.50), while in Iranian drivers who had LBP, mean RMQ score was 7.71(SD=2.99).

Conclusion: Static or less dynamic muscles are more prone to LBP due to lower endurance. Lack of exercising habit, work as a driver for more number of years, driving within city, more driving hours in a day, forward bending, lifting, no seat comfort, lack of awareness regarding ergonomics and lower satisfaction level of job were the main reasons of LBP.