Effects of Ergonomics Among Dentist Practitioners on Pain and Function - An Interventional Study

Abstract

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. Keywords: Dentist, Dentist practitioners, Ergonomics, Pain, Function, musculoskeletal disorders.