FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH OCCUPATIONAL MUSCULOSKELETAL COMPLAINTS AMONG DENTISTS IN CHENNAI CITY

Background: Dentists are prone to musculo skeletal disorders (MSD) because they have to assume uncomfortable postures and awkward positions for a long period of time. The overall global prevalence for occupational musculoskeletal disorders is 20%-30% [3]. Various factors that are cited as risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders include work place, repetitive motion, forceful exertions, non-neutral body postures, and vibration.

Aim: This study aimed at investigating the various factors associated with work related musculoskeletal disorders among dentists in Chennai city.

Materials and Methods: Six hundred dentists were randomly selected to fill up questionnaires for information on the respondent's individual characteristics, job history, and method of work, physical load, and musculoskeletal complaints. Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder complaints was analysed using Chi-square test.

Results: The contributing factors to musculoskeletal symptoms among Chennai city dentists are: young age, treatment of more than 5 patients/day, not taking sufficient break of 5 minutes between patients treated, working for more than 10 hours/day and working without using magnification loupes. The sitting position of the dentist and the supine position of the patient are two major factors in reducing the lower back pain

Conclusion: There is a need to emphasize the role of ergonomics, proper techniques of patient handling, ergonomic designing of dental clinics etc, during the training of dental professionals.