Musculoskeletal disorders among dental hygienists in Canada.

Background: Dental hygiene is a physically demanding profession that places dental hygienists at risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Study objectives were to establish the patterns and frequencies of self-reported occupation-related MSDs among dental hygienists in Canada and determine what MSD prevention training is provided in the curricula of accredited dental hygiene schools in Canada. Methods: An online, quantitative cross-sectional survey was distributed to registered dental hygienists in Canada to assess prevalence and types of occupational MSDs. Additionally, a phone/email qualitative structured interview was conducted with 8 accredited English-speaking dental hygiene schools across Canada. Results: Of all respondents (N = 647), 83% (n = 534) reported a work-related MSD. The most common disorders were carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. There was a positive correlation between number of years in practice and the incidence of MSDs. Half of the respondents felt they had received adequate training on injury prevention. Most schools interviewed felt their injury prevention training was adequate. Discussion: Despite the majority of dental hygiene programs in Canada feeling they provide adequate training for injury prevention, an alarmingly high prevalence of occupation-related MSDs was found among dental hygienists in Canada. This finding is concerning given that 61% (n = 396) of respondents had practised for less than 10 years. Conclusion: The high prevalence of MSDs among dental hygienists in Canada indicates the need for further exploration of ergonomics in the work environment and possible individual predisposing factors for MSDs. Additionally, dental hygiene programs should conduct an in-depth examination of their curricula as it relates to ergonomics and injury prevention.