Search

Introduction: The use and influence of coping mechanisms vary across cultures and evaluation methods. Limited research exists on coping mechanisms for non-specific chronic low back pain (CLBP) in African societies. This secondary qualitative study explored adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies used by adults with CLBP in Nigerian and Zambian communities. Methods: Primary qualitative data from studies in rural Nigeria and peri-urban Zambia were used. Primary data were collected through in-depth face-to-face interviews with adults living with back pain to explore their experiences and coping strategies. Thematic analyses of interview transcripts from both studies were conducted using the framework approach, combining inductive and deductive analysis techniques. Findings: Participants used a mix of adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies for CLBP. Some strategies had both positive and negative aspects, with varying effects on individuals. A few participants focused on adaptive coping, staying positive, and actively managing their pain through stretching, exercise, pacing activities, spirituality, and belief in their strategies. They avoided seeking treatment for their back pain. Discussion: The nuances in coping with CLBP should be taken into consideration when developing coping assessment strategies and rehabilitation interventions for individuals with CLBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obstetric fistula, is a significant problem for women's health and rights. It primarily affects young women and perpetuates poverty and social vulnerability. Limited access to emergency obstetric care exacerbates the situation, hindering women to work or engage in community activities. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of obstetric fistula among women of childbearing age at the University Teaching Hospital in Zambia. Methods: This was a qualitative study design and one-on-one interviews were used to explore how fistula affects women of childbearing age. The interviews were conducted in a private and comfortable setting to encourage open discussion. The data was transcribed and analysed for recurring patterns and themes using thematic analysis. The participants' responses were coded to capture the diverse experiences and perceptions related to fistula and outcomes were presented as narratives. Results: The findings of our research indicate that women who are seeking treatment for obstetric fistula encounter significant challenges. The participants in our study emphasized the various ways in which fistula affects different stages of their reproductive life-cycle, highlighting the intricate relationship between medical and socio-economic factors. Conclusion: Participants shared diverse experiences related to their lives with fistula, highlighting their views on its impact and the daily challenges of managing the condition. Their accounts reveal various difficulties associated with obstetric fistula, such as financial struggles, challenges in obtaining transportation, and a lack of available treatment options. To ensure comprehensive care and improve recovery and overall health for women impacted by this condition, it is crucial to incorporate targeted treatment approaches and foster collaboration among healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Spinal health in children and adolescents has global implications, impacting school attendance, academic performance and physical activity. Effective school-based interventions are essential for promoting spinal health literacy, positive behaviours and academic success., Objectives: This review aims to collect data on school-based interventions for spinal health in children and adolescents over the past two decades. It will examine interventions such as education, exercise and appropriate furniture, focusing on outcomes including musculoskeletal pain, posture, sedentary behaviour and academic performance. Additionally, the review will describe the psychometric properties and clinical utility of the outcome measures used in these studies., Methods and Analysis: The systematic review will adhere to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, employing the PICO framework to define criteria for participants, interventions, comparisons, outcomes and study designs. Only English studies published between 2004 and 2024 will be included. Relevant databases will be searched using specific keywords derived from the PICO framework. The Critical Appraisal Tool and the COSMIN Risk of Bias tool will be used to evaluate the methodological quality and risk of bias in the selected studies. Review authors will independently assess articles, resolving discrepancies through consensus. Statistical analyses will be performed using CADIMA V.2.2.4.2 April 2023., Results: Data will be collected based on various outcome measures, evaluated with an approved checklist and presented through descriptive narratives and tables. Findings will be disseminated via conference presentations, Faculty Research Day and publication in reputable journals., Ethics and Dissemination: The study will adhere to the ethical principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki, ensuring a rigorous approach to minimise bias and guarantee valid results. Studies will be selected based on predetermined criteria following a consistent protocol. The findings will be disseminated through presentations and publication in peer-reviewed journals., Prospero Registration Number: The systematic review protocol is registered on PROSPERO (registration number CRD42024543258), with a planned date of commencement from August 2024 to November 2024., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)