JNDA Vol. 11 No. 2 (July - December 2010) |
Musculoskeletal disorders among dentists in Nepal |
Acharya RS, Acharya S, Pradhan A, Oraibi S |
Download Full Article 213.73KB |
Abstract |
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are one of the most common occupational hazards associated with wide range of occupations. Dental personnel had an increased risk of developing such disorders caused by repetitive, awkward or stressful motions. Taking this issue into consideration we felt the necessity to investigate the prevalence and distribution of musculoskeletal symptoms among dentist in Nepal. Methods: A self reported questionnaire was distributed to a random sample of 150 dentists from different parts of Nepal. The questionnaire was about musculoskeletal symptoms in different parts of the body. Results: A total of 103 questionnaires were completed and returned. Of the respondents, 46(44.7%) were males and 57(55.3%) were females. The mean age of respondents was 29.8 with SD 6.03. Majority were general dentist’s practitioner (63.1%) with the remainder being specialists (36.3%). Practicing in private (55.3%) sector was more compared to government (44.7%) sector. Ninety nine percent of the dental surgeons were right handed while 1% was found to be both handed. Female dentists were significantly younger (p=0.009) compared to males. Prevalence of MSD during the past 12 months were reported at the neck (52.4 %), lower back (52.4%), shoulder (49.5%), upper back (41.7%), and wrist/ hand (36.9%). MSD during past 1 week were reported at the neck (15.5%), lower back (25.2%), shoulder (28.2%), upper back (21.4%) and wrist/hand (12.6%). MSD which interfered with daily activities during the previous 12 months were reported at the neck (7.8%), lower back (4.9%), shoulder (7.8%), upper back (7.8%) and wrist/hand (4.9%). Conclusion: The results suggested that the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among dentists in Nepal is high. MSD remains a major occupational health problem for dentists of Nepal with the commonest problem of neck and lower back pain. Therefore, it is of vital importance to promote the occupational health and prevention programs regarding ergonomic postures which must be acquired by the dentists during their clinical practices. |
Keywords |
Musculoskeletal disorders, Occupational hazards in dentists, Work related disorders |