Assessment of work-related musculoskeletal lower back pain for dentists in Kuwait

Musculoskeletal disorder affects many workers in jobs that involve frequent bending and heavy lifting. Dentists are no exception. Musculoskeletal lower back pain is a serious problem for dentists who perform frequent physical activities while treating patients and it can arise from a broad range of causes. Dentists were ranked among occupations with high levels of physical stresses. The first objective of this study is to define and evaluate work related movements factors that are causing the musculoskeletal lower back pain for dentists. The second objective is to look for possible ergonomic solutions to prevent lower back pain and to enhance dentists’ occupational safety and physical health. Volunteered dentists from different gender participated in this study. Time duration, lift rate, average twisting velocity, maximum moment, maximum sagittal flexion, maximum lateral velocity, gender and dental specialties were measured using lumbar motion monitoring device. Analysis of variance was used to analyze the output data. The results of this study showed that average twisting velocity, maximum sagittal flexion, and maximum lateral velocity physical movements had a significant effect on lower back pain. Also when dentists spend more time treating patients with awkward posture, the lower back pain increases leading to lower working quality and reduces productivity. A correct posture during patient treatments and taking more break time were recommended to prevent musculoskeletal lower back pain.