Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1959.13/929129

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Title
An international review of musculoskeletal disorders in the dental hygiene profession
Author/Creator
Hayes, Melanie J.;  Smith, Derek R.;  Cockrell, Deborah
Institution
The University of Newcastle. Faculty of Health, School of Health Sciences
Description
This review of the current literature is aimed at examining musculoskeletal disorders in dental hygienists, and investigates the complex nature of this significant occupational health issue. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) have been identified as a significant issue for the profession of dental hygiene. The purpose of this review is to examine and assemble the best evidence on the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, interventions, prevention, impact and consequences of MSD among the dental hygiene profession. The prevalence of MSD is alarming, with up to 96% reporting pain, and a number of occupational risk factors have been identified by the literature. Studies investigating interventions are generally limited in their study design, which is concerning given the huge impact MSD can have on the practising dental hygienist. Overall, it is evident from the literature that MSD is a complex and multifactorial problem. However, a complete understanding of the progression of musculoskeletal disorders is still far from being realised, due to the lack of longitudinal studies and standardised research techniques. Future research should implement triangulation methods in longitudinal studies, a strategy which will go a long way in the understanding of this complex occupational health issue.
Relation
International Dental Journal Vol. 60, Issue 5, p. 343-352
Relation
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1922/IDJ_2514Hayes10/abstract
Date
2010
Publisher
John Wiley & Sons
Keyword(s)
dental hygienist;  musculoskeletal disorders;  occupational health
Resource Type
journal article
Identifier
http://hdl.handle.net/1959.13/929129
Identifier
ISSN:0020-6539
Reviewed
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Subject
"International Dental Journal"
 
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