Journal of Research and Advancement in Dentistry
Official publication of Magadh University and Kolhan University, Government of Bihar and Jharkhand, India
Official publication of Magadh University and Kolhan University, Government of Bihar and Jharkhand, India
Year : 2020
Volume : Volume 11
Issue : Issue 2s
Background: Ergonomic problems have been noted among the hazards in the dental workplace. Many surveys have suggested that dental professionals may suffer from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the low back and neck as well as other MSDs but not much has been researched particularly for Orthodontists. This survey aimed to look deeper into MSDs among Orthodontists in Indore and provide a starting point to direct ergonomic intervention. This Questionnaire based Survey was carried out on 80 Orthodontists who were registered in Madhya Pradesh and met the inclusion criteria. Google form link to Standardized Nordic questionnaire was mailed and sent on WhatsApp to Orthodontists. The questionnaire consisted of questions concerned with demographic details, work duration and acquired specialization, organization and methods of work in the surgery, and also disorders connected with the musculoskeletal system and physical prophylactic activity. There was a 75% response rate from a sample of 80. 64% percent of the respondents were males and 36% were females. The results showed that 46% (n = 23) of the respondents were suffering from work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). Wrist pain and low back pain (40%) are the most prevalent MSD, followed by neck and shoulder trouble. The descriptive data were analyzed and Chi-square test was used for statistical significance (p < 0.05). Comorbidity of the musculoskeletal pains is noted. Around 37% of the study is suffering from more than one type of body pain, out of which 4% reported more than four anatomic sites. These results were consistent with other studies surveyed on dental professionals for the number and type of MSDs present. Further attention should be directed towards risk factors and ergonomic intervention. Conclusion: The findings are alarming and proper formal educational training in ergonomics is necessary to minimize the work-related musculoskeletal conditions.
Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders; Prevalence; Orthodontists, dental ergonomics, occupational hazard.
