Burden of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Recent Dental Graduates in Saudi Arabia: A National Survey

Abstract

Introduction: Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are one of the most prevalent occupational hazards affecting dental professionals. Aim: To assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of MSDs among recent dental graduates in Saudi Arabia and evaluates their practice of ergonomics as well as the impact of MSDs on their daily activities. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among all dental interns (n=1552) who graduated from dental schools in Saudi Arabia in the academic year 2018-2019. Data was collected between January 2019 to March 2019 through online survey via SurveyMonkey™. Through the questionnaire, data about participants’ demographics, symptoms of MSDs in the previous 12 months, preventive ergonomic working practices, effects of MSDs on their daily activities, and coping strategies were collected. Descriptive statistics, including mean±Standard Deviation (SD) were computed for continuous variables, while frequencies and percentages were computed for categorical variables. Results: In total, 889 dental interns participated in this study (response rate of 57.3%). A total of 54.3% of the participants experienced symptoms of MSDs in atleast one body part in the previous 12 months. The neck (41%), shoulder (37%), and lower back (31.9%) were the most affected regions. Female interns demonstrated a significantly higher risk of presenting with MSDs than male participants (OR: 2.3, CI: 1.7, 3.1). Alternative therapy was the most reported strategy for dealing with pain (44%, n=190). In total, 58.2% of the interns who presented with MSDs had their daily activities affected (n=251). Conclusion: MSDs are significant health problems among recent dental graduates in Saudi Arabia affecting the daily activities of the majority of those affected. Females were at higher risk of developing MSDs than males. To prevent this issue, dental school authorities should develop and implement strategies to ensure effective integration of ergonomics education in dental school curricula.