Australian Dental Journal 1997;42:(4):240-6 Musculoskeletal symptoms in New South Wales

This study describes the prevalence and distribu-tion of symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders occurring in New South Wales dentists and invest-igates the relationship between these symptoms and work practices. Four hundred and forty two members of the Australian Dental Association (New South Wa le s Branch), were randomly selected and sent ques-tionnaires. Eighty per cent (n=355) responded. No significant differences in reported symptoms were found when considering age, experience, handed-ness, operating position or period of working without a break. Eighty-two per cent of the respondents reported experiencing one or more musculoskeletal symp-toms during the previous month. Sixty-four per cent of the sample reported suffering pain (the majority reported back pain) and 58 per cent headaches. Most severe symptoms reported were pain (39%) and headaches (25%). Those in the youngest age category of less than 35 years (26%), were significantly more likely to have headaches (2 4df p<0.05). Female dentists were more likely to rate the severity of their most severe symptom higher ( 2 1df p<0.05), and to report more frequent pain (2 2df p<0.05) and headaches ( 2 2df p<0.05). Those practising four-handed dentistry were significantly more likely to be in the 35-44 age range ( 2 4df p<0.01), to work for longer periods before taking a 10-minute break (2 5df p<0.05) and to report frequent pain (2 2df p<0.05). The results support the findings of previous studies conducted overseas but additional infor-mation about musculoskeletal symptoms in this occupational group has been identified. Key words: Back pain, musculoskeletal dysfunction, occupational back pain, work-related dysfunction i