Analysis of Influencing Factors for Chronic Low Back Pain with Cognitive Impairment

Abstract

Background: Cognitive impairment (CI) is a common complication in chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients, and its progression increases the risk of dementia. However, there is currently a lack of predictive indicators for CLBP-CI. Previous studies have shown that routine blood indexes have predictive value for Alzheimer’s disease, but their relationship with CLBP-CI remains unclear. This study aims to explore the correlation between routine blood indexes and provide evidence of disparities in chronic pain and cognitive impairment between two groups of individuals with low back pain, as well as establish the foundation for longitudinal experimental studies aimed at developing effective interventions for cognitive impairment in individuals with chronic low back pain. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at West China Hospital, Sichuan University. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was conducted to divide patients into the CLBP-CI or CLBP-nCI group. Statistical analysis was performed to examine the differences between chronic low back pain patients with cognitive impairment and those without cognitive impairment. All statistical tests were conducted at a significance level of α=0.05 for two-sided testing. Results: The prevalence of chronic low back pain with cognitive impairment in this study demonstrates age-related disparities, with a higher prevalence observed among older individuals (P=0.009). A statistically significant difference in white blood cell count was observed between individuals with chronic low back pain and cognitive impairment (P=0.004). Conclusion: Age and white blood cell count may serve as influential factors in the development of chronic low back pain with cognitive impairment. This finding can aid healthcare professionals in implementing early intervention and treatment for individuals experiencing this condition.