THE CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME AT DENTAL PHYSICIAN

Abstract

The Carpal tunnel syndrome is a form of suffering of the median nerve which can often be interpreted as a professional pathology, being very common especially in those people who use the wrist region excessively. In dentistry the pathology is associated with a range of professional repercussions on the ability and efficiency improvement even imposing sometimes the surgical act. The aim of the study was to identify the clinical aspects of carpal tunnel syndrome in a group of dentists and establish the role of ultrasound in the diagnosis of musculoskeletal joint disease. Material and method. It was investigated anamnestically, clinically and in laboratory (by ultrasound) a group of25 dentists selected after applying the inclusion criteria which referred to the presence of signs and symptoms that characterize the carpal tunnel syndrome. Results and discussions. The group of dentists selected by applying the criteria was then analyzed in terms of symptoms such as pain, paresthesia, decreased muscular strength. On examination it was analyzed the presence of thenar amyotrophy, of Tinel sign and Phalen test which were marked with the qualifier absent / present. The paraclinical investigation consisted of making the velocity of motor conduction on the median nerve and the ultrasound of the carpal region. Conclusions. The Carpal tunnel syndrome is a non-negligible presence in the field of dentistry that can have serious repercussions on the professional act; the ergonomic principles must be introduced and respected throughout the amplitude of the professional management and physical therapy has proven to give an important contribution in preventing and reducing the symptomatology of irritation or compression of the median nerve

Keywords

• carpal syndrom
• dentist
• ergonomic work
• muskulo-skeletal disorders
• ultrasonography