Christina Oster

03/31/2021
RDH 116
Scientific Literature Review
Dental Hygienists are at high risk of developing Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) due to
static postures and recurring, repetitive motions with the arms and hands. MSDs involves
cumulative trauma to muscles and joints that occurs over time resulting in discomfort and pain.
Researchers have concluded that more investigation is needed with regards to preventing MSD
among dental professionals and students. Effective strategies and methods to achieve MSD
prevention are needed to improve career longevity and health of dental professionals.
In the article A systematic review of musculoskeletal disorders among dental
professionals (2021) the researchers state, “Specifically among dental hygienists, one study
found that 93% of respondents reported having some kind of MSD pain within the preceding 12
months; the majority indicated pain within the wrist or hand area, neck, and upper back” (Nye et
al, 2021). While a recent study shows that back pain is the most common reported region
affected by MSDs in Dentists, hand and wrist pain is found to be more common among dental
hygienists than it is for dentists or dental assistants. A study which evaluated multiple cases,
showing that a large majority of dental hygienists reported having pain in the wrists and hands
within the last 12 months (Hayes et al, 2009). The adverse consequences of MSD pain are loss in
revenue for Dental Hygiene practitioners and a negative impact on the profession. A study found
that among those with MSD, 36% reported having considered a new career, and 13% had
ultimately left the profession completely (Nye et al, 2021). The components to proper
ergonomics are often among the first concepts taught to students within dental hygiene training.
For dental hygienists good ergonomics include placing the feet flat on the ground, sitting up
straight, avoiding sustained bending and/or twisting of the neck and back, or raising the arms and
shoulders above the normal, relaxed level (Nye et al, 2021).
Several studies demonstrate evidence of the significance of MSD among both dental
hygiene students and professionals during early years of clinical work and training. Periodic
breaks to do simple chair side stretches of the hand and shoulders can reduce the severity of
MSD pain. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies include yoga exercising,
massages, chiropractic treatment, meditation, and acupuncture. More research is needed to
identify which ergonomic and preventive methods contribute to reducing the occurrence of MSD
among dental hygiene students and dental professionals. “Experts have concluded that there is a
strong need for intervention through improved education of ergonomics, exercise, raising
awareness within the profession, and the implementation of stretching regimens” (Nye et al,
2021).
 References
Hayes M, Cockrell D, Smith D. A systematic review of musculoskeletal disorders among dental
professionals. Int J Dent Hyg. 2009;7(3):159-65.
Nye, W. H., Partido, B. B., DeWitt, J., & Kearney, R. C. (2021). Prevention and Reduction of
Musculoskeletal Pain Through Chair-Side Stretching among Dental Hygiene Students.
Journal of Dental Hygiene, 95(1), 84–91.