Prevalence of Low Back Pain and Functional Disability in Post-Lumbar Laminectomy Patients: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Understanding the impact of lumbar laminectomy on low back pain is essential for improving postoperative management and preventive strategies. Persistent low back pain after surgery can affect daily functioning and quality of life, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Objective: To assess the prevalence, intensity, and functional disability associated with low back pain in post-lumbar laminectomy patients. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted over six months in four major hospitals in Peshawar. The inclusion criteria consisted of 152 male and female post-lumbar laminectomy patients aged between 20 and 60 years who had undergone surgery at least three months before participation. Exclusion criteria included children, pregnant women, individuals with severe systemic diseases, or cognitive impairment. Before data collection, ethical approval was obtained from the Research Review Board of Iqra National University, Peshawar. Data were collected using the Oswestry Disability Index and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage) were applied to summarize demographic and clinical data. The Chi-square test was used to determine associations between categorical variables such as age, gender, and disability levels, while the Linear-by-Linear Association test assessed trends between age and disability severity. Results: Participants ranged in age from 20 to 60 years, with a mean age of 40.66±10.02 years. About 92% of participants reported experiencing low back pain following lumbar laminectomy. No statistically significant association was found between gender and disability levels due to low back pain (p>0.05). A significant association was found between the variables age and disability level, with a p-value of 0.03. However, varying degrees of functional disability were reported, ranging from mild to complete. Conclusion: Gender was not significantly related to disability, but age was a significant factor, suggesting older patients face greater postoperative challenges. These findings emphasize the need for individualized rehabilitation strategies, regular follow-up, and targeted management to minimize functional disability and improve recovery outcomes.