A Survey of Neck Pain among Dentists of the Lebanese Community

Abstract

Background and Objectives. In the area of dentistry, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), particularly neck discomfort, are significant occupational health hazards. The purpose of this study was to ascertain how neck pain affected the capacity and productivity of dental practices. Additionally, it examined the advantages of preventive measures in lessening pain intensity and rated the degree of dentists’ incapacity. Subjects and Methods. This study used a cross-sectional survey design to examine how neck pain affected dentists’ ability to work and their productivity between July 2022 and November 2022. The study included 342 dentists from all around Lebanon. An online validated survey was designed, and the data collection process was performed via direct calls and emails where the survey link was shared. Data included demographic characteristics, gender, type, and duration of the dental practice, which were presented by the toll of hours of work per week, general health status, exercise habits, and Neck Disability Index (NDI). The weight of the participants was not included in the study. The statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 25. Results. The majority of participants were between the ages of 25 and 35, and the gender distribution of the demographic distribution was comparable. The prevalence of pain was 86.8% (97/342 dentists). NDI analysis showed that 65.7% had mild disability, 12.8% have a moderate disability, and 1% had severe disability. Bivariate analysis showed that pain was affected by age ( p = 0.013 ), orthodontist practices ( p = 0.031 ), regular exercise ( p < 0.001 ), using vibrating instruments ( p < 0.001 ), cervical flexion for better vision while working ( p < 0.001 ), knowledge, and experience about ergonomic posture ( p < 0.005 ). Multivariate analysis showed four predictors for pain: age ( p = 0.017 ), performing stretching exercises after finishing clinical practice ( p = 0.022 ), orthodontist specialty ( p = 0.029 ), and performing cervical flexion for better vision while working ( p = 0.004 ). Conclusion. This study showed that through the application of some strategies such as stretching, exercising, and being careful in using vibrating instruments, the dentist may be able to relieve the pain.