Prevalence and preventive measures of spinal musculoskeletal disorders among dentists at the University Dental Hospital of Monastir: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), particularly those affecting the spine, are highly prevalent among dentists due to the prolonged static postures and repetitive movements inherent to dental practice. Understanding their prevalence and associated risk factors is crucial for implementing effective preventive strategies and ensuring the well-being and career longevity of dental professionals. Methods: this is a cross-sectional study over 2 months, conducted among dentists of the university hospital of odontology in Monastir. The data collection was carried out by means of a self-questionnaire exploring the sociodemographic and professional data of the participants. The NORDIC style questionnaire and the KARASEK questionnaire were used to explore musculoskeletal health and psychosocial constraints, respectively. Results: the final sample size of our study consisted of 260 eligible individuals, with a final participation rate of 64.23%. The typical profile of the participants was predominantly female 70.7% (n=118), right-handed 90.4% (n=151), with a mean age of 28.30 ± 6.7 years. Most were single 75.4% (n=127), non-smokers 73.7% (n=123) and engaged in physical activity 56.1% (n=93). A total of 83.8% (n=141) of participants were dental trainees. The majority of practitioners, 58.7% (n=98) were working in departments focused exclusively on medical dental practice. The median seniority was 12 months, while the average number of daily working hours was 5 ± 1.16 hours. The prevalence of MSDs of the spine, all sites combined, was 67.6% (n=113). According to the binary regression model, the determinants of cervical pain risk were: gender (OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.18-0.96; p=0.04); inter-patient breaks (OR: 0.24, 95% CI 0.1-0.58; p=0.002); and the concomitant presence of back pain and low back pain (OR: 3.8, 95% CI: 95 1.6-8.8; p=0.001) and (OR: 6.2, 95% CI 2.7-14.5; p=10-3) respectively. As for back pain, the risk was reduced by a factor of 0.79 in the case of frequent rotation of practitioners working in the same chair (OR: 0.79, 95% CI 0.66-0.95; p=0.01) and increased by the presence of other MSD (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.1-1.87; p= 0.007); by the absence of break sessions (OR: 2.58, 95% CI 1.24-5.38; p=0.01) and by the concomitant presence of neck pain (OR: 3.34, 95% CI: 1.48-7.54; p=0.004). The risk of developing low back pain was increased by high daily hourly mass (OR: 4.9, 95% CI 2.2-11.1; p=0.001); in case of concomitant cervical pain (OR: 2.88, 95% CI: 1.3-6.2; p=0.007) and in case of a learner (OR: 1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.3; p=0.007). It is reduced if enough breaks are taken (OR: 0.2, 95% CI 0.06-0.7; p=0.01). Conclusion: spinal MSDs, were highly prevalent among dental professionals. Neck, back, and low back pain were significantly associated with occupational factors such as insufficient breaks, prolonged working hours, and lack of task rotation. These findings highlight the importance of ergonomic and organizational interventions in dental practice.