Evaluation of the Ergonomic Method and Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Dental Hygienist

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and work-related factors of these symptoms in dental hygienists. The self-administered questionnaire was surveyed and collected from August 1-12 of 2011 targeting 210 dental hygienists Seoul, Gyeonggi, Daegu, Pohang. Except 5 people whose responses are not clear and who suffered accident, the analysis was made on 205 people. Data analysis was performed using the chi square test and multiple logistic regression analysis using the SPSS WIN(ver 18.0) program, RULA and, REBA. The overall Experience rate of musculoskeletal symptoms was 95.6% (196/205). The specific Experience rate of musculoskeletal symptoms for different regions of the body were as follows:The highest was shown 82.4% in Neck-shoulders(R), 78% in Neck, 69.8% in shoulders(R), 66.3%in Wrist(R). Therefore, Improvements of working environments in dental clinics are needed to prevent musculoskeletal disease development in dental hygienists.

Differences in plantar pressure by REBA scores in dental hygienists

“…2 In particular, maintaining an inappropriate posture, such as excessive bending of the head, neck and waist during dental hygiene practice, or excessive bending of the waist and neck during chair side assist, is an important cause of musculoskeletal disorders, and dental hygienists often complain of related symptoms. 5,19 The mean REBA score of the subjects in our study was 4.96 ± 1.04 points, which is outside of the normal range for a neutral work position, and 87.5% of subjects had a REBA score of four points or higher (Table 1). 5,19 The mean REBA score of the subjects in our study was 4.96 ± 1.04 points, which is outside of the normal range for a neutral work position, and 87.5% of subjects had a REBA score of four points or higher (Table 1).…”

“…2,17,18 In domestic studies of the rate of musculoskeletal symptoms in dental hygienists, the majority of hygienists were found to experience symptoms, with reported rates of 86.3% and 95.6%. 5,19 The mean REBA score of the subjects in our study was 4.96 ± 1.04 points, which is outside of the normal range for a neutral work position, and 87.5% of subjects had a REBA score of four points or higher (Table 1). Previous studies have discussed the relationship of musculoskeletal disorders with work experience and physical characteristics in dental professionals.…”

“…[4][5][6] Hygienists were found to be most at risk of musculoskeletal disorders in the lower back, neck, shoulder and wrists. [4][5][6] Hygienists were found to be most at risk of musculoskeletal disorders in the lower back, neck, shoulder and wrists.…”

“…The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in dental hygienists has been reported within a broad range from 29.8% to 95.6%. [4][5][6] Hygienists were found to be most at risk of musculoskeletal disorders in the lower back, neck, shoulder and wrists. 4,6,7 Studies of working posture in dental hygienists have frequently reported problems with maintaining a neutral position in different parts of the body, such as asymmetrical twisting or bilateral height differences in the shoulders or pelvis.…”