Prevalence and predictors of musculoskeletal disorders among otolaryngologists: a cross-sectional analytic study

Otolaryngologists frequently work in prolonged neck positions and perform repetitive upper-limb movements, which may increase their risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Yet the prevalence and contributing factors of conditions such as lateral epicondylitis and cervical disc herniation remain insufficiently explored in this group. This study aims to determine their burden and identify associated factors among otolaryngologists. This descriptive cross-sectional study included 129 otolaryngologists from university hospitals across Iran. Data on neck and elbow symptoms and related diagnoses were collected using a structured musculoskeletal questionnaire. Associations with demographic and occupational factors were analyzed using Chi-square tests, t-tests, and multivariable regression. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Among 129 otolaryngologists, neck pain was reported by 90.7%, elbow pain by 31.0%, cervical disc herniation by 11.6%, and lateral epicondylitis by 15.5%. After adjustment, elbow pain remained independently associated with older age and rhinology subspecialty. Lateral epicondylitis showed a borderline association with older age. It was also independently associated with the rhinology subspecialty. No independent associations were identified for neck pain, cervical disc herniation, or disability. Musculoskeletal symptoms were common, with age ≥ 50 years and rhinology practice being independently associated with elbow pain and, rhinology practice being independently associated with lateral epicondylitis. No associations were identified for neck pain or disc herniation. Targeted ergonomic measures and further longitudinal research are needed.