Prevalence of biomechanical risks among dentists

Abstract

Introduction Dental staff are often affected by musculoskeletal system disorders, including changes in ligaments, muscles and nerves of hand, wrist, elbow, upper arm, shoulder, neck and back. Ergonomic prevention programs include redesigning work environment and education of healthcare workers on work-related hazards and their preventive measures. The aim of the paper was to determine pain prevalence in neck and shoulder joints due to professional risk factors among dentists. Material and Methods In the research, dentists were surveyed anonymously using "the questionnaire on problems related to neck and shoulder joints". In cooperation between Public Health Teaching Institution Health Center "Dr Mustafa Šehović" Tuzla, Department of Dentistry with Institute of Public Health of Tuzla Canton, 150 questionnaires were distributed to Public Health Centers Tuzla Canton and private practices. There were 112 fully completed and analyzed questionnaires. Results the rate of pain prevalence in neck and shoulder joints was very high, more precisely among 101 respondents (90.1%). The highest number of the respondents practiced self-medication-88 (78.5%), while 64 respondents (58%) sought professional help. There was statistically significant number of respondents (92 dentists-82 %) that used anal-gesics/antirheumatics several times per year (two to three times). Conclusion Pain prevalence was high. The research indicated a serious, widespread issue that can only be solved if carried out thoroughly and continuously.

Keywords

• pain
• posture
• ergonomics
• neck
• spine
• physical therapy