The research investigated whether there were any obvious pre-placement risk factors that could be used to reduce the risk of back pain.
Evidence from:
P. Lee et al. The Journal of Rheumatology. Feb (2001) Vol.28 #2 p. 346.
A cross-sectional study of 1,562 employees, using a back pain questionnaire and measurements of abdominal muscle strength.
Lifetime and point prevalences were 60% and 11% respectively. There was no correlation with body mass index or height. Prevalence was slightly higher among married subjects.
Comment
It is well established that pre employment screening based on physical characteristics is not effective in preventing reports of low back pain. Prevalences were not linked to occupation.
It would appear that primary prevention measures are unlikely to be effective (except for impact injuries), secondary prevention would be a sensible response.