Assessment of pain management strategies and perception of the role of physiotherapists in the management of low back pain among motorcycle riders in south-eastern Nigeria

Introduction: LBP is the most common cause of activity restriction and work absence in much parts of the world, putting a heavy financial burden on people. This study is aimed at determining the management practices and the knowledge and utilization of physiotherapy services among commercial motorcycle riders in Nnewi north. It is very essential with the long-term objective of increasing the level of knowledge of physiotherapy and promote its utilization among motorcycle riders and general public.       
Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study that involved commercial motorcycle riders that ply within the four major villages of Nnewi town in Nnewi-North local government area of Anambra state. An interviewer based semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the respondents at their muster points.
Results: One hundred and fifty-four riders were recruited and all were male. 76% of the respondent for their low back pain is pain relief (drugs) such as Paracetamol 15.6%, while 44.2% of the respondent used drugs unknown to them, 19.5% reported that only stretching was their home management for their pain, majority 96.8% had never utilized their services, most 68.8% accepted to utilize it if the need arises.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that only few riders sought proper medical care for their low back pain. Majority chose over-the-counter medications while others went for other home management for pain such as stretching, use of ointments etc. Also, most of the riders lack a good knowledge of physiotherapy and their roles in pain management. Although, majority had never utilized their services, most accepted to utilize it if the need arises.