Sedentary lifestyle as a risk factor for low back pain: A Systematic Review.

Chen SM, Liu MF, Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 2009 Jul;82(7)

OBJECTIVES: To review systematically studies examining the association between sedentary lifestyle and low back pain (LBP) using a comprehensive definition of sedentary behaviour including prolonged sitting both at work and during leisure time.

METHODS: Journal articles published between 1998 and 2006 were obtained by searching computerized bibliographical databases. Quality assessment of studies employing a cohort or case-control design was performed to assess the strength of the evidence.

RESULTS: One high-quality cohort study reported a positive association, between LBP and sitting at work only; all other studies reported no significant associations. Hence, there was limited evidence to demonstrate that sedentary behaviour is a risk factor for developing LBP.

CONCLUSIONS: The present review confirms that sedentary lifestyle by itself is not associated with LBP.