Temporal and spatial distribution of musculoskeletal disorders from 1990 to 2019: a systematic analysis of the global burden of disease

Abstract

Objectives This study aimed to globally assess the prevalence and distribution of primary-origin musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) from 1990 to 2019 to better understand their temporal trends.Methods Using data from the 2019 Global Burden of Diseases, prevalence rates of six primary-origin MSDs were analysed across subregions, age groups and genders. Raw and age-standardised prevalence were mapped for over 204 countries. Cochran-Armitage trend tests evaluated temporal prevalence trends. The correlation between MSDs prevalence, national income levels and medical density was explored.Results In 2019, global MSDs prevalence varied significantly among countries. Hip osteoarthritis had a prevalence of 0.56% (95% CI: 0.43% to 0.70%), while low back pain was 8.62% (95% CI: 7.62% to 9.74%). Most MSDs exhibited an increasing prevalence with age, except for neck pain, which stabilised or decreased after age 45–50. Women generally had higher prevalence rates across all age groups. High-income countries consistently showed higher prevalence rates compared with middle and low-income countries. Over time, most subregions experienced a significant increase in MSD prevalence. However, after adjusting for age, the temporal trends for back and neck pain became non-significant, except for hip osteoarthritis, where half of the subregions remained significant. Multiple linear regressions revealed positive correlation between MSD prevalence and both national income level and medical density.Conclusion The global burden of MSDs is increasing due to population ageing, but other factors should be considered. Longitudinal studies with a wider range of MSDs and additional risk factors are needed for improved prevention strategies.