Individual factors influencing compliance to lumbar sacral orthosis usage among patients aged 40-60 years fitted at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala District. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/g4ws8m54Keywords:
Lumbar sacral orthosis, low back pain, patient adherence, individual factors, Mulago National Referral HospitalAbstract
Background:
Compliance with lumbar sacral orthosis (LSO) use is essential for effective management of low back pain. This study assessed individual factors influencing compliance with LSO usage among patients aged 40–60 years fitted at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala District.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 62 patients aged 40–60 years with low back pain who had been fitted with LSO at Mulago National Referral Hospital. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires containing open- and closed-ended questions. Data were analyzed using SPSS and presented in tables, charts, and percentages.
Results:
The majority of respondents were female (68.3%) and aged 56–60 years (51.6%). Most respondents (66%) had been diagnosed with low back pain, with 36.6% experiencing symptoms for more than one year. About 61% had previously received treatment, mainly topical analgesics (60%). Nearly half (49%) had been prescribed LSO. Among LSO users, 50% reported wearing the orthosis during certain activities, while 30% wore it daily. Half of the respondents rated comfort at the lowest scale level. More than half (60%) experienced discomfort or side effects, including pain. Additionally, 50% had used LSO for more than one year, suggesting perceived long-term benefits despite challenges.
Conclusion:
Compliance with LSO usage among patients aged 40–60 years was strongly influenced by comfort, side effects, perceived pain relief, and convenience during activities. Although many patients recognized benefits and continued long-term use, discomfort limited consistent adherence.
Recommendations:
Healthcare providers should conduct individualized fitting, regular follow-up adjustments, and patient education on correct LSO use. Improving orthosis comfort, design, and counseling may enhance compliance and treatment outcomes among patients with low back pain.
