Manage your shoulder or neck pain with these simple effective tips.

In 1946, research done by F. Biller found that 65% of dentists reported pain at work. A worrying statistic. Many things have progressed since the mid-40's like our methods of communication evolving from strictly telephone or written post to the advent of mobile phones, Facebook, Skype and other social platforms. So surely the prevalence of pain among dentists at work will have changed and improved?

Unfortunately this hasn't been the case. In more recent times research has indicated that the prevalence of physical issues at work remains worryingly high. A 2015 study by Gaowgzeh and colleagues found that even among 60 young dentists (average age 25 years old) 70% reported work related pain. A startling statistic for a group of dental professionals at the onset of their career.

Within Dentistry 75% of dental professionals will report symptoms of neck or shoulder pain at some point during their career. Employ these tips to help avoid neck or shoulder pain.

1)     Sit Closer To Your Patients

Heads are pretty heavy. They usually weighing around 4.5 kgs. When you lean over or bend forward this weight elevates the strain on your cervical vertebrae, back, shoulder and neck muscles. To avoid neck or shoulder pain minimizing the amount you lean over is very important. Try to sit closer to your patient and avoid bending your head forward by more than 20 degrees.

2)     Manage Your Stress

High levels of stress coupled with working at complex, difficult tasks can lead to subconscious muscle contractions in the upper trapezius muscles. This is known as neuromuscular hypertension and tends to lead to elevated blood pressure when no dynamic muscular activity occurs. The stationary contracted muscle becomes ischemic and painful as the blood pressure remains high. This indicates how important stress management is to avoid neck and shoulder pain at work. Incorporating simple exercises like shoulder roles and back stretches will also help relieve this discomfort.

3)     Use a Dental Chair With Armrests

For Dental professionals some procedures can last as long as a couple of hours. For the longer ones it is important to take the weight off your shoulders using armrests. A Dental Chair with armrests allows for better quality work and less risk of shoulder pain occurring. 

4) Exercise Regularly

Pain and soreness can often be attributed to muscle weakness. Research has indicated that maintenance of a regular exercise regimen will help to reduce shoulder pain. When sitting for long periods in a forward leaning position it is vital to have sufficient core strength to maintain a neutral spine.  Some form of resistance training a couple of times each week where there is progression within the training program, as your own strength increases, is an excellent option to improve your workplace posture.

For more information regarding workplace ergonomics among dentists or to arrange a Free Consultation with one of our Ergonomic Consultants at our Dublin City Centre Showroom (3 Clare Street Near Merrion Square, opposite the National Art Gallery) get in touch at 01 6110200.