Postural Assessment and the Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders during Routine Clinical Examinations among Otolaryngologists in Isfahan City, Iran

Abstract

Background: Otolaryngologists are susceptible to various musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the absence of suitable posture, because of working in various postures in offices and hospitals. The present study aimed to assess the risk of postures whilst either standing or sitting during routine examinations, estimate the prevalence of MSDs, and determine the relationship between these disorders and postures among otolaryngologists in Isfahan City, Iran.

Methods: In this study, photos were taken of the postures of 39 otolaryngologists in Isfahan City during patient examination and were analyzed using Quick Exposure Check (QEC) and loading on upper body assessment (LUBA) tools. Based on the risk of their postures, they were categorized into three groups of low-risk, medium-risk, and high-risk. Moreover, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ‎) was used for the assessment of the prevalence of MSDs.

Results: Based on the LUBA tool, otolaryngologists were at medium risk while examining patients' throats, and high risk during ears and nasal examinations; the QEC tool assessed this risk as low. Data resulting from the NMQ revealed that 31 participants (79.4%) had at least one MSD, which was a remarkable number. Based on data analysis, the relation between LUBA posture scores and the prevalence of MSDs was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: The prevalence of MSDs was remarkably high in some body regions, which might be due to inappropriate sitting or standing postures during common examinations. This can be prevented by educating practitioners about suitable postures.