THE IDEAL POSTURE IN DENTISTRY: ERGONOMIC ASSET OR LIABILITY? A MINI-REVIEW

F, Tricca¹, S.R. Tari², S. Benedicenti³ , S. A. Gehrke⁴ , R. Scarano¹

¹ Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
² Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
³ Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
⁴ Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain

Correspondence to:

Journal of Orthopedics 2024 May-August; 16(2): 95-101

Received: 2 August 2024 Accepted: 30 August 2024

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Abstract

Proper ergonomics can prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental practitioners. Static and awkward postures contribute significantly to the onset of MSDs, affecting various parts of the body. This review emphasizes the importance of dynamic posture over a static one. Any prolonged contraction of the muscular tissue leads to a restriction of capillaries and a reduced intake of nutrients, lactate accumulation within the tissues with subsequent pain, muscle imbalance, and activation of adaptive systems, which significantly impact the spine, neck, shoulders, and wrist health. A general overview of the main MSDs was also provided along with preventive strategies to increase the awareness on such a topical issue among clinicians.

Keywords: back pain, dynamic posture, ergonomics, injury, musculoskeletal disorders, neck pain, preventive strategies, shoulder pain, static posture, wrist pain