
Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain and its Correlation with Ergonomics among Dental Students and Practitioners of Karad- A Questionnaire Based Study
ZC15-ZC17
Correspondence
Siddhartha Varma,
Department of Periodontology, School of Dental Sciences, KIMSDU, Karad, Maharashtra, India.
E-mail: siddhartha_varma@yahoo.in
Introduction: Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) is an ordeal for dental professionals, as they work for long hours in astatic and discomfited posture.
Aim: To assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and its co-relation with ergonomics among dental students and private practitioners in Karad.
Materials and Methods: The study population filled a questionnaire related to socio-demographic information, musculoskeletal pain arising from professional practice and ergonomics. Group 1 consisted of 53 private practitioners and group 2 consisted of 47 postgraduate students and interns.
Results: A total of 79.25% and 59.57% of participants from group 1 and 2, respectively experienced musculoskeletal pain, with neck being commonly affected and lower extremities being least. Musculoskeletal pain was found to be significantly associated with working hours (p=0.001) and poor ergonomics.
Conclusion: MSD is prevalent among dental students and practitioners of Karad. Awareness of proper ergonomics and preventive measures and its application is required for its management.