Study to probe back-pain problems

CHRONIC low back pain among farmers is the subject of a study being conducted by chartered physiotherapist Laura Keane.

It will be conducted with the collaboration of Teagasc, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists and the School of Physiotherapy and Performance Science at University College Dublin (UCD).

Until now, no dedicated research regarding farmers has been conducted either in Ireland or elsewhere.

As agriculture is one of the country’s largest industries, there is general acceptance that research of this nature is much needed. At the invitation of Teagasc and the HSA, Ms Keane provided back-care advice to farmers at last week’s National and World Ploughing championships in Grangeford, Co Carlow.

She is currently studying for a PhD at the school of physiotherapy and performance science at UCD.

Her research investigates low back pain (LBP) prevalence, severity and associated disability among farmers.

Farmers are seen as vulnerable to developing back problems, because their work frequently incorporates activities that are regarded as risk factors.

These include lifting objects heavier than 25lb (11.36kg) or repeatedly lifting lighter objects and awkward body posture while working, such as bending and twisting.

Prolonged driving of tractors, trucks, and other farm equipment that cause whole body vibration are among the other risk factors.