Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Egyptian Dentists Working at Faculty of Dentistry-Ain Shams University

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints among dentists is high. The symptoms mightimpair work capacity and the future possibility to stay in the profession. In Egypt, data about the prevalence andrisk factors of this problem are scanty. Aim of work: To estimate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders(MSDs) and its distribution among dental staff, house officers and students at faculty of Dentistry, to find out theinfluence of personal and job characteristics, physical and psychological risk factors at work on the occurrenceof MSDs and to detect the impact of MSDs on participants’ life. Materials and methods: A cross sectionalstudy was carried out among (403) participants. A self-administered questionnaire that included informationabout: personal and job characteristics, a version of Standard Nordic Questionnaire for occurrence of MSDsand modified version of Demand/Control model Questionnaire from Karasek for psychosocial factors. Results:The overall MSDs prevalence among participants was 66.7%, in which 29.3% had chronic complaints. Neckand shoulder pain were the most prevalent sites of complaint reported by 66.5% and 61.8% of the subjectsrespectively, followed by low back pain and wrist pain (59.3%, 46.2%, respectively). The severity of MSDsforced 24.2% of respondents to take analgesic, 30.1% to reduce their daily activities, and 8.6% to go on sickleave. Dental staff significantly had the highest prevalence of MSDs compared to dental students and houseofficers. Older age participants were more prone to MSDs compared to younger ones; female respondents hadhigher MSDs than male but without statistical significance. As regard the physical factors at work: the useof vibration tool, excessive arm elevation and prolonged standing / sitting were significantly associated withincrease in the prevalence of MSDs. Also psychosocial factors: as poor job control was significantly associatedwith the development of MSDs while high work demand didn’t. Conclusion: Work related musculoskeletaldisorders are significant occupational health problems among both dentists and dental students. Their medicalconsequences justify extensive preventive efforts. Specific occupational health education programs, includingergonomic workplace adaptation should be implemented.