Is shoulder impingement syndrome a problem in otolaryngologists?

Area of Science:

• Occupational Medicine
• Orthopedics
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Shoulder problems are recognized occupational illnesses with increasing incidence.
• The specific occupational risks for otolaryngologists regarding shoulder impingement syndrome are not well-defined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if otolaryngologists have a higher susceptibility to shoulder impingement syndrome compared to a control group.
• To identify potential occupational factors contributing to shoulder impingement syndrome in otolaryngologists.

Main Methods:

• A postal questionnaire survey was administered to otolaryngologists and endocrinologists (control group).
• Response rates were 64.6% for otolaryngologists (367/556) and 65.7% for endocrinologists (138/210).
• Prevalence of impingement syndrome and history of injury/overuse were compared between groups.

Main Results:

• A significantly higher proportion of otolaryngologists (24.0%) reported suffering from impingement syndrome compared to endocrinologists (10.9%).
• Endocrinologists with impingement syndrome were more likely to report a history of injury or overuse.
• This suggests an occupational factor beyond direct injury or overuse contributes to impingement in otolaryngologists.

Conclusions:

• Otolaryngologists exhibit a significantly higher incidence of shoulder impingement syndrome.
• Continuous shoulder flexion and abduction during patient examination and surgery are potential contributing factors.
• Further research into ergonomic interventions for otolaryngologists is warranted to mitigate occupational shoulder risks.