A PILOT SURVEY OF THE TRADITIONAL USE OF THE PATUKA ROUND THE WAIST FOR THE PREVENTION OF BACK PAIN IN NEPAL

A pilot survey of 55 persons from the traditional patuka-wearing popul ation in the central region of Nepal was conducted during May 1991 to study the significance of the traditional use of the patuka around the waist as related to the prevention of back pain. The hypothesis that a patuka functions like a spinal support and hence prevents back pain in the workers and porters in Nepal appears to be supported by the res ults of this epidemio-clinico-radiological pilot research. Hence its t raditional use in Nepal appears to be justified on scientific grounds and it seems rational to recommend the use of this indigenous, simple and cost-effective spinal support to people facing the risk of back pa in. However, only a broad epidemiological survey and/or double-blind s tudy can establish reliably its role in clinical or ergonomic applicat ion.