Hossein Fakoor Rashid

University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

Abstract Title: Epidemiology of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Health-Related Quality of Life in Veteran Elite Iranian Athletes

Biography:

Research Interest: Background: Retired elite athletes may experience long-term musculoskeletal consequences resulting from prolonged exposure to high-intensity training and competition. However, epidemiological evidence regarding musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in veteran athletes remains limited, particularly in Middle Eastern populations. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the incidence, severity, anatomical distribution, and types of MSDs among retired elite Iranian athletes and to examine their association with health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 503 male retired elite athletes (aged 45–60 years) from six sport disciplines were assessed. MSDs were evaluated using the Persian version of the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center questionnaire, and HRQoL was measured using the SF-36 Health Survey. Incidence rates per 1,000 training hours were calculated, and between-group comparisons were performed using non-parametric statistical tests. Results: The incidence and pattern of MSDs varied significantly across sport disciplines and severity levels. Musculoskeletal pain was the most prevalent severe and moderate disorder, whereas osteoarthritis predominated among retired football players. The knee and shoulder were the most commonly affected anatomical regions. No significant differences were observed between sports disciplines for the Physical or Mental Component Summary scores of HRQoL. Conclusion: Retired elite Iranian athletes exhibit sport-specific patterns of MSDs, influenced by cumulative mechanical load and injury history. These findings highlight the importance of long-term, sport-specific preventive and rehabilitation strategies to preserve musculoskeletal health in veteran athletes. Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders; Retired athletes; Health-related quality of life; Epidemiology; Knee osteoarthritis; Iran