Ergonomics: The X- factor for wellness in dentistry (original) (raw)
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Safety and Health at Work, 2014
Background: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of ergonomics among dental professionals of HublieDharwad twin cities, India. Methods: Investigator-developed, self-administered, closed-ended questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding ergonomics during dental practice was filled in by undergraduates, house surgeons, postgraduates, and faculty members of dental institutions and private practitioners from HublieDharwad twin cities. Results: Data were collected from a total of 250 participants, 50 belonging to each academic group. Overall mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 52%, 75%, and 55%, respectively. Significant correlation was found for age with attitude (c 2 ¼ 10.734, p ¼ 0.030) and behavior (c 2 ¼ 12.984, p ¼ 0.011). Marital status was significantly associated with all the three domains; knowledge (c 2 ¼ 29.369, p ¼ 0.000), attitude (c 2 ¼ 29.023, p ¼ 0.000), and practices (c 2 ¼ 13.648, p ¼ 0.009). Conclusion: Participants had considerable awareness and behavior toward ergonomics in dental practice. The high attitude score indicates stronger acceptance of ergonomics principles and guidelines during routine dental procedures. The current study highlights the situation of ergonomics in dental practice in the form of knowledge, attitude, and practices.
Awareness Among Dentists Regarding Ergonomics in Dental Practice: A Cross-sectional Survey
Journal of Oral Health and Community Dentistry, 2018
Background: Dentistry is a highly skilled profession, requires high concentration within a confined working environment, which requires different postural variations. Ergonomics is an applied science concerned with designing products and procedures for maximum efficiency and safety in dental practice. Aim: To assess the awareness of dentists towards ergonomics. Materials and methods: The present study was conducted among dentists of Dhule city which is cross-sectional, Maharashtra, India. A structured, self-administered questionnaire consisting of 19 closed-ended and one opened ended questions was administered to 135 dentists out of whom 109 responded. Out of 109 dentists, 33 were MDS. Thirty-eight were BDS and 38 were postgraduate students (PG). PG students were selected from the dental institute. The collected data were tabulated and subjected to analysis using appropriate statistical tests. Result: Though there was statistically no significant difference regarding awareness of ergonomics in between MDS, BDS and PG students, it was seen that there was awareness present among dentists, but its incorporation in their practice was lacking. Several disorders like musculoskeletal disorders have been seen till date because of improper ergonomics. Conclusion: Present study concludes that the majority of the dentists were having the knowledge and positive attitude towards ergonomics, but there was a lack of positive behavior towards it. It's a need of the hour to implement ergonomics strongly in the day to day life. Spreading awareness regarding ergonomics is necessary.
2014
Background: Literature suggests increase in the prevalence of various ergonomics related disorders among dentists and but there is lack of information related to knowledge, attitude and practice regarding ergonomics in routine dental practice in Indian scenario. Objective: The present study was undertaken to assess knowledge, attitude and practice about ergonomics among oral health professional in Jodhpur city, Rajasthan, India. Methodology: The study was done among all the dentists of the Jodhpur city (150). A total of 100 dentists voluntarily participated in the study making a response rate of 67%. Data collection was done by close ended and self administered questionnaire. Knowledge, attitude and behaviour were assessed by 20, 8 and 8 items and demographic variables like age, gender, religion, income, years of clinical experience, marital status, IDA membership was also assessed. Results: The present study shows no significant relation between knowledge, attitude and behavior. Ma...
Ergonomic analysis to study the intensity of MSDs among practicing Indian dentists
Throughout the world background literature reviews have shown a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental practitioners. Prevalence of MSDs among dental practitioners in India is not well documented. Aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and distribution of MSDs among dental practitioners in Pune city in the state of Maharashtra, India. A cross sectional descriptive study in which a self-administered questionnaire (Body part discomfort survey) was used to assess the musculoskeletal symptoms among dental practitioners. In this study (n=57) in total, 47% of the respondents were males and 52% were females. The recorded data was analyzed. This questionnaire results (for all body parts), showed neck trouble to be the most predominant MSDs (69%), followed by shoulder (51%), upper back (51%), and lower back problem (39%).This results suggest that there is a need for change of body posture. This mean can be achieved by using a proper body support or change in work area. A prototype design is suggested to overcome this problem. The deployment of the prototype has reduced the RULA scoring and proved by t-test calculation. Results were verified by using the p-chart. The fraction of defects for all 12 areas and each respondent were calculated for further study.
insights into ergonomics among dental professionals.pdf
Background: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of ergonomics among dental professionals of HublieDharwad twin cities, India. Methods: Investigator-developed, self-administered, closed-ended questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding ergonomics during dental practice was filled in by undergraduates, house surgeons, postgraduates, and faculty members of dental institutions and private practitioners from HublieDharwad twin cities. Results: Data were collected from a total of 250 participants, 50 belonging to each academic group. Overall mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 52%, 75%, and 55%, respectively. Significant correlation was found for age with attitude (c 2 ¼ 10.734, p ¼ 0.030) and behavior (c 2 ¼ 12.984, p ¼ 0.011). Marital status was significantly associated with all the three domains; knowledge (c 2 ¼ 29.369, p ¼ 0.000), attitude (c 2 ¼ 29.023, p ¼ 0.000), and practices (c 2 ¼ 13.648, p ¼ 0.009). Conclusion: Participants had considerable awareness and behavior toward ergonomics in dental practice. The high attitude score indicates stronger acceptance of ergonomics principles and guidelines during routine dental procedures. The current study highlights the situation of ergonomics in dental practice in the form of knowledge, attitude, and practices.
AIM:The aim of this study is to define work-related musculoskeletal disorders, risk factors and stressful individual behaviors in dentistry which lead to injures and implementing preventive strategies. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Musculoskeletal disorders were attributed to numerous risk factors including prolonged static posture, repetitive movements, suboptimal lighting, poor positioning, genetic predisposition, mental stress, physical conditioning and age. Researchers have found symptoms of discomfort for dental workers occurred in the wrists/hands (69.5%), neck (68.5%), upper back (67.4%), low back (56.8%) and shoulders (60.0%). Musculoskeletal pain, particularly back pain, has been found to be a major health problem for dental practitioners. Early symptoms of MSDs include pain, swelling, tenderness, numbness and loss of strength. RESULTS: Knowing the risk factors and MSD symptoms dentists will increase prevention, change their habits, select proper ergonomic equipment, and have a break after each operation with stretching exercise. CONCLUSNS: Ergonomics along with regular exercises, relaxation techniques (meditation, pilates, biofeedback & yoga), proper nutrition helps dentists combat stress, thus conserving the productive energy, thereby increasing comfort, improving the quality of life, ultimately leading to extended careers.
Effects of Ergonomics Among Dentist Practitioners on Pain and Function -An Interventional Study
https://www.ijrrjournal.com/IJRR\_Vol.9\_Issue.11\_Nov2022/IJRR-Abstract48.html, 2022
Background and Objectives: The term ergonomics is derived from "Greek" words "ergon" and "nomos" in which "ergon" means work and "nomos" means natural laws. Thus, Ergonomics is a study of how the human body can be best used for maximum comfort, efficiency, safety, and productivity. The term work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) refer to musculoskeletal disorders to which the work environment contributes significantly or to musculoskeletal disorders that are made worse or longer lasting by work conditions or workplace risk factors. Hence, this study was done to know the effect of ergonomics among dentist practitioners on pain and function. Method: This study included screening of the dentist practitioners followed by the intervention after selecting the dentist practitioners based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Screening was done by Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire (NMQ) and Workplace ergonomic risk assessment scale (WERA).60 dentist practitioners were selected and divided randomly into two groups: Control group and intervention group. Pre and Post intervention data for pain and function were collected by using Numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) and Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) respectively. Post-intervention data were collected after 6 weeks. Result: Within group and between group analysis of intervention group suggested significant reduction in pain and progression in function statistically. While the same was not true for the control group. Conclusion: There is significantly positive effects of ergonomics on reduction of pain and improvement of functions among dentist practitioners.
Awareness and Implications of Proper Ergonomics among Dentists
Awareness and Implications of Proper Ergonomics among Dentists, 2023
Introduction: The incidence of work-related musculoskeletal pain is quiet high in dental professionals. The most frequent musculoskeletal pain occurs in spine, back, shoulders, elbows and hands. Ergonomics in an applied science concerned with designing products and procedures for maximum efficiency and safety. The application of ergonomics in dentistry could not only provide safety benefits but a practitioner might also improve performance objectives through greater productivity. Appropriate ergonomic design is essential to avoid repetitive strain injuries, which can progress to long-term disability over time. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the awareness about proper ergonomic practices and its implications among the practicing dentists. Materials and methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted among all the 207 practicing dentists belonging to different fields including Post Graduate students. Non practicing dentists were excluded. Data collection was done by the means of structured questionnaire for ergonomic factors. The variables evaluated were gender, age, professional background [BDS or MDS], awareness, no of clinical hours, presence of pain, measures taken to prevent the injury or pain. Results: 88.9% of the dentist were aware about the ergonomic principles but only 29.5% of them followed the principles. It was observed that 67.7% dentists experienced neck pain, 52.2% experienced shoulder pain, 52.7% experienced upper back pain, 51.7% experienced lower back pain. Conclusion: Present study concludes that the majority of the dentists were aware about ergonomics, but somehow tend to overlook it. Implementation of ergonomic practices is important to prevent the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders in future.
Awareness among Post-Graduate Students about Ergonomic Practice in Vidarbha Region
Journal of Evolution of Medical and Dental Sciences, 2020
BACKGROUND In recent times ergonomics has become a popular term. The term has been used with most professions but increasingly in the dental profession. Dentistry is a profession in which all the dentists worldwide are commonly affected with health hazards like musculoskeletal disorders which hinders their clinical practice resulting in early retirements. So, to evaluate workplace efficiency and prevalence of musculoskeletal problems in practicing local dentists this study was planned. We wanted to assess the awareness about proper ergonomic practice among the postgraduate dental students in Vidarbha region. METHODS The study was undertaken at Sharad Pawar Dental College between 2018-2019. Study comprised of 50 postgraduate students. Each student was asked to fill selfadministered questionnaire regarding ergonomics. The questionnaire consisted of a total of 10 questions. Results were assessed accordingly. RESULTS Out of all the participating postgraduate students, 84% have knowledge of the term ergonomics and its applications in dental practice. 52% of them responded positively to taking micro breaks while performing a procedure. 88% of them are aware of the posture related musculoskeletal disorders. 84% of them responded positively about experiencing symptoms during working. 68% of them responded positively about knowing some exercises to strengthen their back, shoulders or hands. 36% of the participants are practicing four handed dentistry. CONCLUSIONS Awareness about dental ergonomics can enable the postgraduate students and other dental practitioners to have a better work-life, and provide their patients with the quality of service they need.
Ergonomic risk assessment of musculoskeletal discomfort among dental practitioners of Uttarakhand
The Pharma Innovation Journal, 2021
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most common occupational diseases among dentists. Dental work consists of static and demanding activities in which small instruments are repeatedly used. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain, pain areas and risk factors associated with musculoskeletal pain among dental practitioners. To determine the prevalence and severity location of musculoskeletal pain, the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire was administered among 80 dental practitioners. The majority of the respondents (72.5%) had experienced MS pain more than twice, while only 17.5 per cent experienced no musculoskeletal pain. According to the total discomfort score of Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, it can be concluded that dental practitioners felt discomfort mostly in the neck (27.22%), right shoulder (16.43%), left shoulder (14.45%), right wrist (6.99%), right upper arm (9.75%) and upper back (9.71%). There is an association between the Age, BMI and years of experience with the musculoskeletal pain experienced by dental practitioners. The prevalence of pain among dental practitioners could be reduced by ergonomic working environment, regular breaks, maintenance of health, and performing specific exercises designed to dental workers.