Musculoskeletal Health: When to Seek Professional Help

By Howell Tapley, PT, MSPT, PhD, Stasia Tapley, PT, DPT and Tiffany Idlewine, PT, DPT, OCS

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, work-related musculoskeletal disorders are common and may result in pain, limited motion, and weakness in the spine and extremities.¹ Dental hygienists are susceptible to musculoskeletal pain, especially in the neck, shoulder, and hand/wrist regions.^2,3 It is believed that awkward, prolonged working posture—such as bending, reaching, and standing—contribute to these conditions.^4,5 Like other health care professionals, dental hygienists experience psychological stress and anxiety at work.^6,7 Studies suggest that the psychological stress experienced by dental hygienists is related to musculoskeletal symptoms.^6,8 Studies on oral health professionals found that 58% of dentists have experienced headaches and dental hygienists may also be susceptible to tension headaches due to the nature of their work.^9,10

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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