Risk factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders in dentistry

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate musculoskeletal system-related complaints; identify regions at risk in dentists by observing and inquiring the dentists at work; and find out the associations with age, sex, working years, academic position and departments, positions during work and daily working hours. Methods: Modified Nordic Questionnaire (m-nMQ) was used to evaluate pain, hospital admissions and absenteeism. Quick Exposure Check (QEC) form was utilized to assess risk exposure levels related with low-back, neck, hand-wrist and shoulder-arm. Results: 163 dentists were included the most painful regions were found to be back (66.9%), neck (65%) and low back (64.4%). Musculoskeletal symptoms were more prevalent in women and research assistants. QEC scores were found to be lower in those who performed regular exercises. Conclusion: Dentists should be educated about ergonomics at the beginning of their professional life.

Is Rhinoplasty Surgery a Risk Factor for Low Back Pain among Otorhinolaryngologists?

“…Maintaining a certain posture for a long time while working is dependent on permanent muscle loading. [5][6][7][8][9] Muscle loading that occurs to maintain this working position causes fatigue and decreases muscle strength. This posture is directly related to the person's mechanical competence and physiological functions.…”

“…Clinical observations show that the causes of early degenerative changes in the lumbar region include compression, bending, and shear stress due to wrong body postures. [8][9][10] In septorhinoplasty, these effects occur in the lumbar region and lead to the development of low back pain. In this study, the detection of lumbar pathologies at such a level that they were seen as lumbar degeneration on MRI findings in 14 doctors performing rhinoplasty suggests that these factors may have serious consequences.…”

“…It is known that dentists generally work in an asymmetrical and uncomfortable position, with the head being forward and in rotation and arms being kept away from the body. 9,10 Similarly, otorhinolaryngologists also work in a position that places an excessive load on the lumbar region, especially during rhinoplasty. In studies conducted with dentists, those who worked in the same position for a long time had the most vertebral disc disorders depending on the professional working conditions.…”

“…In addition, habitual similar movements, improper working postures, and excessive use of force are reported to be factors that cause disorders of the musculoskeletal system. 9,10 Rhinoplasty is a surgical operation frequently performed by otorhinolaryngologists. Often the accompanying septum deviation is intervened during the same session.…”

Applications of the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire: A Review

“…It was found that psychosocial stress significantly influenced the appearance of MSD. Finally, Bozkurt et al [104] evaluated dental professionals, identifying regions of risk and their relation to the different qualitative variables of the individual. The symptoms of MSD were more frequent in women and research assistants.…”