Behavior of musculoskeletal disorders in Dentistry students
Keywords:
ENFERMEDADES MUSCULOESQUELÉTICAS; EQUILIBRIO POSTURAL; ERGONOMÍA; ESTUDIANTES DE ODONTOLOGÍA.; MUSCULOSKELETAL DISEASES; POSTURAL BALANCE; ERGONOMICS; STUDENTS, DENTAL.; DOENÇAS MUSCULOESQUELÉTICAS; EQUILIBRIO POSTURAL; ERGONOMÍA; ESTUDANTES DE ODONTOLOGIA.Abstract
Introduction: dentistry students face ergonomic risks derived from prolonged postures and repetitive movements, which favor the onset of musculoskeletal disorders that affect their academic performance and future professional practice.
Objective: to identify the prevalence and characteristics of musculoskeletal alterations in dentistry students.
Methods: an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Universidad Regional Autónoma de los Andes, Ambato campus, between 2023 and 2024. The population included 335 students from the seventh to tenth semesters enrolled in clinical courses, selected through simple random sampling, to whom questionnaires were applied to obtain information.
Results: of the participants, 74,6 % were women, and the predominant age range was 22 to 24 years. A total of 70,7 % reported knowledge of ergonomics, although only 49,9 % considered having received adequate training. About 62,1 % reported pain associated with incorrect postures, mainly in the back, neck, and upper limbs. Pain intensity was concentrated at moderate levels (scores 2 and 3 on a scale of 0 to 4). No significant associations were found between gender and back pain. Additionally, 35,8 % presented calluses on their hands attributable to clinical activity.
Conclusions: the findings show a high prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints among students, despite basic knowledge of ergonomics. It is necessary to strengthen ergonomic training, implement stretching programs, and promote postural awareness to improve occupational health and prevent future complications in dental practice.
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