A unique approach to preventing back pain in the dental office.
Back pain has been reported by a majority of dental practitioners for decades. Efforts to relieve pain have focused on postural modification, exercise, and equipment designed to facilitate "neutral" posture, but there has been no significant reduction in reported rates of pain. By focusing on static muscle activity and muscle overuse rather than posture, the authors describe the theory behind an innovative approach for the development of an ergonomic intervention.


OBJECTIVE
Demonstrate that posture is not the problem.


METHODS
None.


METHODS
Critical analysis of existing literature in dentistry and in other more advanced fields.


RESULTS
Application of current research outside of dentistry.


CONCLUSIONS
Elimination of Static Muscle Activity rather than modification of posture is the critical issue in preventing pain, fatigue, and injury.
Career Extenders Inc., Omro, WI 54963, USA. gbooks@anteriorestdental.com
Gregory J
GJ
Books
Kurt
K
Klemm
D001416:Back Pain / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003770:Dental Offices; D006801:Humans; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D004856:Postural Balance; D011314:Preventive Health Services / Q000379:methods*; D000078329:Workforce