Effect of Positional Changes (Sitting and Supine) on Middle Ear Pressure by Tympanometry in Adults

Background: The middle ear is connected to the nasopharynx, and its function is intimately linked to physiological changes in middle ear pressure (MEP). Aims: The aim of the study was to assess whether positional changes in the body from the sitting to the supine position affect MEP. Subjects and Methods: An interventional study was conducted over 6 months from October 1, 2024 to April 1, 2025. It included 81 healthy participants who underwent examination of both ears (162 ears), selected randomly after ensuring the lack of any significant middle ear pathology. The tympanometry test was performed in the sitting position for the chosen ear, then in the supine position within 1 min, and repeated after 3, 6, and 9 min in the supine position to measure the difference in pressure under these conditions. Subsequently, the participants returned to the sitting position again and rested for 10 min before starting to test the other ear and following the same conditions as for the first ear. Results: There were statistically significant differences in the median MEP at all times in the supine position compared to that in the sitting position, on the right and left sides, and of males and females at all times in the supine position compared to that in the sitting position. Conclusions: Tympanometric measurements of MEP can be considerably influenced by postural changes. The body’s position can influence middle ear ventilation and pressure regulation.