Magnitude of depression and associated risk factors among patients with musculoskeletal disorder treated in physiotherapy outpatient department in Amhara region comprehensive specialized hospital in Ethiopia: a prospective cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: The state of depression that can lead to substance and drug abuse, as well as an increased risk of suicide. Without a doubt, the link between musculoskeletal pain and depression compromises a person’s health and drastically lowers their quality of life, resulting in increased incapacity. Depression and musculoskeletal discomfort are two well-known risk factors for long-term sickness absence, which is defined as a period of sickness lasting more than a week, which means chronic musculoskeletal pains, particularly multiple pains, are linked to depression. And early diagnosis and care of depression in musculoskeletal disorder are critical to patients’ physical, functional, and occupational results. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of depression and associated risk factors among patients with musculoskeletal disorder. METHOD: Multi-institution cross-sectional study conducted in Amhara region Comprehensive specialized Hospitals from April 1st to May 30th, 2021. The data was collected from 217 participants through interview administrative questioner and patient medical record review. Binary logistic regression was used to identify associated risk factors of depression. The strength of the association was detected by the adjusted odds ratio. RESULT: A total of 217 participate in this study with the age range of 18–80 years. Among the study participants, 57.1% (n = 124) (AOR: 95% CI: 50.7–63.6) were had depression. Treatment duration, and social support were significantly association with depression among patient with musculoskeletal disorder with P < 0.05. CONCLUSION: The magnitude of depression was relatively high among musculoskeletal disorder patients treated in physiotherapy out-patient department. The length of treatment duration (hospital stay) and the status of social support from families and friends were significantly associated with depression among patients with musculoskeletal disorders. A multidisciplinary strategy is required for diagnosing and treating depression in patients with musculoskeletal disorder. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12888-023-04658-3.