Ergonomics and musculoskeletal disorder among dental professional and students in pondicherry and tamil nadu. A cross – sectional study

Abstract

Ergonomic hazard is a physical factor within the environment that harms the musculoskeletal system. Prosthodontists are at high risk of cervical and spine problems due to the limited access and impaired vision associated with the oral cavity. The symptoms include low back pain, stiffness and sciatica with neurological features such as tingling, paraesthesia and muscle weakness. Ergonomics is highly relevant to preventive and occupational medicine, management of musculoskeletal injuries and rehabilitation.

AIMS & OBJECTIVES : To assess the knowledge, awareness & practice towards Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) among dental professionals and students.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a cross sectional analytical study conducted among dental professional and dental students of various dental colleges of Pondicherry& Tamil Nadu. A set of closed ended 15 questions were prepared to collect the relevant information pertaining to this study. Questions were related to assess the knowledge and practice towards ergonomics and work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Type of clinical practice, dentists working position, number of clinical working hours, musculoskeletal problem , location of pain were included.

RESULT: The obtained data will be subjected to suitable statistical analysis and the results were derived.

CONCLUSION: The key for dental clinicians for staying healthy and fit is to adopt an ergonomic position all the times and adopting yoga/exercise in their daily routine thus preventing them from developing MSDs. Faculty in the institutions are required to teach these principles on ‘need for dentist’s health’ basis rather than just as a curriculum since BDS first year so that prevention of MSDs can be implemented at primary level.