Ergonomics aims to optimize human well-being and system performance through understanding interactions between humans and other elements. Dentists face musculoskeletal disorders from uncomfortable postures during work. Occupational diseases are increasing, with musculoskeletal disorders among the most common due to improper ergonomics. Applying ergonomic principles can help reduce risks like static postures and muscle imbalances while increasing productivity, safety, quality and decreasing fatigue through measures like maintaining good posture, alternating tasks, and adjusting equipment height.

2. Ergonomics is “the scientific discipline concern with the understanding
of interactions among human and other elements of a system,and the
profession that applies theory,principles,data and methods to design
In order to optimise human well being and overall system performance.”
The International Ergonomics Association

3. Dentists all around the world have been challenged with
issues related to the musculoskeletal system. This mainly
occurs due to uncomfortable posture in the work area.
This uncomfortable posture frequently results in muscular
disorders.

4. Occupation related diseases are increasing day
by day and one amongst them is
musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to
improper ergonomics in dentistry.
Knowledge of ergonomics is thus of great value
in preventing ill-health and injury from work.

5. Prevelance Of Musculoskelatal Disorders
Among Dentists
With MSDs
Without MSDs

6. Most Prevelant Areas of Pain
NECK
BACK
SHOULDERS, ELBOW, HANDS

7. 1. Reducing the risk of MDS.
2. Increasing productivity.
3. Increasing safety.
4. Improving the quality of work.
5. Decreasing fatigue and errors

8. Some Symptoms of
Musculoskeletal disorders
(MSDs):
• Excessive fatigue in the
shoulders and neck
• Tingling, burning, or other
pain in arms
• Weak grip, cramping of
hands
• Numbness in fingers and
hands
• Clumsiness and dropping of
objects
• Hypersensitivity in hands
and fingers
Some Signs of MSD
Decreased range of
motion
Loss of normal sensation
Decreased grip strength
Loss of normal
movement
Loss of co-ordination

9. With specific reference to dentistry, the
risk factors include:
Stress,
Poor flexibility,
Improper positioning,
Infrequent breaks,
Repetitive movements,
Weak postural muscles,
Prolonged awkward postures ,
Improper adjustment of equipment.

10. Prolonged Static Postures
Muscle Ischemia/Necrosis/Imbalances
Hypomobile Joints
Spinal Disc Herniation and Degeneration
Neck and Shoulder Injury
Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
Low Back Pain
Psychosocial Factors

11. Prevention Of MSDs:
Good Posture
Proper Equipment Layout

12. Maintain An Erect Posture
Use an adjustable chair with lumbar, thoracic and arm support
Work close to your body
Minimize excessive wrist movements
Avoid excessive finger movements
Alternate work positions
Adjust the height of your chair and the patient’s chair to a
comfortable level
Consider horizontal patient positioning
Check Placement of the adjustable light
Check the temperature in the room

13. Maintain the Low Back Curve
Tilted Seat Plan
Saddle Stools
Lumbar Support Of Chair
Avoid Static Postures

14. Use Magnification
Body Strenghtening Excercises
Weight Control
Scheduling
Potential Strategies
 Vary Procedures within same appointment
 Alternate tough and easy patients
 Shorten pateint’s recall interval

17. EXCERCISES

21. SOME OF CORRECT POSITIONS

22. The successful application of ergonomics
assures high productivity, avoidance of
illnesses and injuries, and increased
satisfaction among workers. Unsuccessful
application, on the other hand, can lead to
work-related musculoskeletal disorders
(WMSDs). Good ergonomic design of tools,
processes and furniture does improve
personnel comfort, health, morale,
productivity and readiness. So, take charge
of your health and stay fit and healthy !