ERGONOMICS RELATED DISORDER AMONG DENTISTS IN PESHAWAR – A QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY

Abstract

Objectives:To assess the level of awareness about ergonomics among dentists in addition to preventive measures undertaken by them to avoid musculoskeletal disorders.
Materials and methods:Specially designed questionnaires were distributed among dental practitioners at a private dental hospital, Sardar Begum Dental College (SBDC) and various private clinics throughout Peshawar, to evaluate the awareness about ergonomics and its hazards in a dental setting. Those dentist with work experience of 1-25 years were included in the study, barring those with significant medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, congenital skeletal disorder, scoliosis, spinal surgery and pregnancy.
Results:According to the present study 65.8% of the dental practitioners work with an assistant. Majority of the participants practice dentistry in sitting position. In this study 27.5% of the dentists worked without any break, 38.2% had one break and only 6.1% took a break after every patient. Only 06% of dentists exercise regularly. The MSDs was recorded among 90% of participants with 49.4% neck pain, 28% in shoulders, 15.3% in wrist, and 17.3% in elbow. Discomfort and pain in hip, knee and foot was 37%, 12% and 17.3% respectfully.
Conclusion:It was concluded that limited ergonomics in the work environment of the dentist’s results in MSDs, and its prevalence is very high. The symptoms of MSDs increase with the number of years of practice. The prevention and reduction of MSDs among dentists should include their education in dental ergonomics and awareness regarding the importance of work-related risk factors.