Pathogenesis and Treatment of Back Pain in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

Back pain made a major contribution to dialysis failure in eight CAPD patients during a five-year period, We were able to collect history, physical examination and radiological data in five of them. Common factors associated with back pain were:

1) long-standing back problem (4 of 5),

2) presence of bone or degenerative disease involving the spine or extraspinal disease affecting the posture and,

3) abnormal spinal mechanics on physical examination.

It is recommended that the training program of patients on CAPD, who show these high-risk factors, incorporate a “custom-made” back exercise program and possibly these patients should wear lumbosacral supports.