Assessment of ergonomic risk of work related musculoskeletal disorders among dentist in Kolhapur region

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Work-related disability is caused commonly due to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in dentistry. Prolonged static awkward and repetitive postures cause MSD in dentists. The study was executed to confirm the development of MSD in various body regions as they have to work in a small oral cavity to perform crucial dental procedures with precision and concentration. OBJECTIVE: To assess the occurrence of the MSD in several body regions of dentists and to carry out postural study thereby helping them improve posture. METHODS: Dentists were assessed for their current working postures with various MSD symptoms and its effects. The questionnaire was devised to get musculoskeletal health data from dentists. The postural load was investigated using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Various risk factors contributing to MSD symptoms were identified after data were statistically analysed using IBM SPSS version 27. RESULTS: According to the current study neck, shoulder, lower back, upper back, wrist hand, elbow, hip, thigh, knee, and ankle were the most affected anatomical regions. Average RULA score for the current study was found to be 6.75 which indicated a need of change of posture while performing dental procedures. There is statistical correlation between gender, Body Mass Index (BMI), uncomfortable positions, stretching, use of ergonomic saddle chair, hand dominance and MSD. There is no statistical correlation between years of experience and MSD. CONCLUSION: Current workstation (Dental Chair) requires immediate improvements as evident from the postural load analysis, thus immediate implementation of intervention program is required.