Musculoskeletal disorders amongst Greek endodontists: a national questionnaire survey

Aim To investigate amongst Greek endodontists the prevalence and characteristics of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the past 12 months, the treatment followed, their postures during practice and the adoption of ergonomic standards. Methodology One hundred and forty-seven endodontists met the inclusion criteria and were invited to participate in the survey. Participants were asked for personal/professional data, prevalence, characteristics and treatment for MDSs in the past 12 months. Endodontists' postures during practice as well as ergonomic factors were also recorded. Data were analysed using chi-square test, independent samples t-test and logistic regression. The level of significance was set at P = 0.05. Results The response rate was 84%. MSDs were reported by 61% of the participants. Of them, 69% reported pain to more than one body part. The prevalence of disorders was highest in the lower back (30%) and neck (30%). Medical care was applied in 53% of the disorders. A sitting position was always used by 83% of endodontists. Awkward postures during practice (OR: 4.561, 95% CI: 1.341-15.512), regular stretching exercises (OR: 0.032, 95% CI: 0.010-0.110) and number of patients day(-1) (OR: 3.524, 95% CI: 1.686-18.100) were significant predictors for MSDs. Properly adjusted stools, sufficient lighting and space in the operating room were reported by 71%, 96% and 93% of participants, respectively. Conclusions A high percentage of endodontists reported MSDs. Adoption of correct/neutral postures, regular performance of stretching exercises and reduced number of patients/day were associated with a low prevalence of disorders. The majority of endodontists had adopted ergonomic innovations/standards to control disorders.