Musculoskeletal Disorders In Dentistry

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) represent an important occupational health issue in dentistry. Prolonged static postures, repetitive movements, excessive contraction of short muscles could cause musculoskeletal disorders. Even when the sitting posture is the one recommended by ISO, there is a high risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. Each member of the dental team is predisposed to pain or injury in different areas of the body, depending on their tasks and position in relation to the patient. MSD is prevalent world over and is one of the commonest causes of long-term pain and disability affecting hundreds of millions of people. This article shows the causes and the mechanisms that lead to musculoskeletal disorders and some methods for prevention.

Body Discomfort Due to Musculoskeletal Disorders among Dental Practitioners in Primary Healthcare Center in Bandung City

“…The World Health Organization defines MSD as "a disorder of the muscles, tendons, joints, intervertebral discs, peripheral nerves, and vascular system, not directly resulting from an acute or instantaneous event but installing gradually and chronically" [6]. An MSD is one of the major occupational health problems faced by the dentists since it often causes discomfort, minor aches and pains in many parts of the body.…”