| ORIGINAL ARTICLE |
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| Year : 2019 | Volume
: 18
| Issue : 1 | Page : 13-17 |
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Coping mechanisms as predictor of stress in patients with chronic low back pain: A Nigerian Study
Joseph Asuquo1, Innocent Abang1, Chukwuemeka Anisi1, Adetunji Toluse2, Emmanuel Essien3, Bassey Edet3, Pius Agweye1
1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
2 Spine Unit, National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos, Nigeria
3 Clinical and Research Unit, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria
Correspondence Address:
Dr. Joseph Asuquo
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, College of Medical Science, University of Calabar, PMB 1115, Calabar
Nigeria
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None
DOI: 10.4103/njot.njot_5_19
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Introduction: Chronic low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions worldwide. It can be quite severe, affecting physical, social, occupational and even psychological well-being. This study describes the coping mechanisms commonly employed in patients with chronic LBP and its relationship to perceived stress. Methods: In this descriptive hospital-based study, Brief Cope Scale and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) were administered to 100 patients with chronic LBP. Variables analysed were sociodemographic characteristics, dimensions of the Brief Cope Scale and the PSS. Logistic regression was used to determine predictors of perceived stress. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS version 20, and the threshold for statistical significance was set at 0.05. Results: Sample was comprised of 59 females and 41 males with an age range of 18–72 years (x̄= 42.7 ± 16.2). The most common spinal pathologies were lumbar spondylosis (n = 39), canal stenosis (n = 18) and facet joint arthritis (n = 16). The average perceived stress score for the entire sample was 28 (standard deviation [SD] = 6.94), and the coping mechanisms most employed were religion (x̄ = 6.9, SD = 1.77), planning (x̄ = 6.4, SD = 1.34) and emotional support (x̄= 6.0, SD = 1.54). After logistic regression, instrumental support, self-blame, active coping, religion, positive reframing and venting emerged as predictors of perceived stress. Conclusion: Coping styles are an important determinant of perceived stress in patients with chronic LBP. Due consideration should be given to the stress experienced by patients with chronic LBP, and their clinical care should include stress management to improve outcome.
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