Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and dental practice - Part 2. Risk factors for dentistry, magnitude of the problem, prevention, and dental ergonomics

Yamalik N.

INTERNATIONAL DENTAL JOURNAL, vol.57, no.1, pp.45-54, 2007 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 57 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2007
  • Doi Number: 10.1111/j.1875-595x.2007.tb00117.x
  • Journal Name: INTERNATIONAL DENTAL JOURNAL
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.45-54
  • Keywords: musculoskeletal disorders, oral health care providers, risk factors, prevention, ergonomics, PREVALENCE, HAZARDS, SYMPTOMS, HEALTH
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

As a consequence of occupational stresses placed on their bodies, oral health care providers (OHP) are vulnerable to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Muscular imbalance, neuromuscular inhibition, and pain and dysfunction may frequently be observed among OHR Repeated unnatural, deviated or inadequate working postures, forceful hand movements, inadequate equipment or workplace designs and inappropriate work patterns are likely to be the particular risk factors. However, WMSDs are not an avoidable part of OHPs' professional lives. Paying the necessary attention to occupational and individual risk factors, prevalence, symptoms and consequences of WMSDs, and implementing the recommended health and safety measures can enable a long and healthy career. This review essentially aims to provide background information for OHP regarding the magnitude of the problem, particular risk factors and the available recommendations for prevention.