Coexistence of neck pain and low back pain, and their association with demographic, occupational, and spine MRI-based morphological factors in dentists

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain, particularly low back pain (LBP) and neck pain (NP), is notably high among dentists. Several studies have examined associated factors such as age, gender, long working hours, non-ergonomic postures, and repetitive movements. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the gold standard for detecting spinal morphological changes; however, evidence shows that MRI findings do not always correlate with the presence or severity of LBP or NP. PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the relative frequency of coexisting versus isolated NP and LBP and to assess their association with demographic, occupational, and MRI-based morphological factors. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among actively practicing dentists affiliated with the Professional College of Dentists and Stomatologists of Murcia. Data were collected during a single visit at an authorized radiology unit, including pain types, demographic and occupational data, and MRI measurements. RESULTS: A total of 57 dentists participated. LBP was reported by 66.7% of participants, while NP was present in 70%; notably, 47.4% experienced both simultaneously. MRI findings revealed that the most common lumbar alterations were disc bulging (84.2%) and facet joint degeneration (66.7%), while cervical changes included disc bulging (66.7%) and herniated disc (54.4%). A significant association (p = 0.010) was found between younger dentists and the coexistence of both pain types, as well as between middle-aged dentists (40-49 years) and isolated LBP. CONCLUSION: Nearly half of dentists experience coexisting NP and LBP, with coexistence strongly linked to individuals under 40 years of age.