Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries or disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs. They are caused by sudden or sustained exposure to repetitive motion, force, vibration, and awkward positions. MSDs tend to be more common among various professions, including dental hygiene. Dental hygienists often adopt fixed positions and use repetitive finger and hand movements, putting them at high risk for developing MSDs.
MSDs specific to dental hygienists include discomfort in the upper extremities and lower back, with specific problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tension neck syndrome, thoracic outlet compression syndrome, pronator syndrome, tendonitis, lateral epicondylitis, trigger thumb, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, carpometacarpal osteoarthritis, and vibration-induced neuropathy. Discomfort from these conditions may lead to lost income and work time, diminished work proficiency, need for medical care, and early retirement.
A recent study examined the prevalence of MSDs and the significance of symptoms in dental hygienists. A 20-question survey was administered to 396 female (85%) and 72 male (15%) dental hygienists, with an age range between 25 and 65 years. Most participants were in the 25–35-year age group.
Results showed 91% experienced or were experiencing MSDs. The most relevant affected areas were the neck (31%), shoulder (25%), and lumbosacral region (23%). The remaining 21% was divided among other areas, such as elbow, hand, wrist, twitching finger, and non-specified others.
Approximately 18% of participants with MSDs took days off work, with 53% experiencing chronic pain and 44% experiencing acute pain. Despite the disabling effects of their pain, most sought to minimize the number of days off work.
Measures taken to prevent MSDs included sports and exercise, the use of ergonomic equipment, and stretching. However, most participants lacked awareness of their high risk for musculoskeletal problems, so they did not adopt preventive measures. The results highlight the importance of educating dental hygienists on MSD prevention.
Regular movement can reduce the negative impact of static postures and include integrating exercise, stretching, and relaxation exercises into the workday. An additional preventive strategy includes using tools to improve ergonomics at work, such as magnification systems to help maintain proper working posture.
Raising awareness and implementing positive changes, including stretching and standing up throughout the day, may help to minimize MSDs. Maintaining good physical health is essential to working pain-free, contributing to an improved quality of life.
