High Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Dentists: A Cross-Sectional Study From Kerala, India

Literature on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), work ability, and associated factors among dentists is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of MSD, work ability, and associated factors among dentists in Kerala, India. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 dentists (median age: 34 years, 47% male), selected from a list of dentists in a district of Kerala. Information on MSD and work ability were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire administered both online and through direct interviews. Factors associated with MSD were analyzed using multivariable regression analysis. The prevalence of MSD in the past 12 months was 86.9% (95% CI: 83.1 - 90.9), and in the past seven days was 42.4% (95% CI: 36.7 - 48.08). Among those reporting MSD in the last 12 months, 21.4% experienced it in two sites. Of the nine regions assessed, the neck was the most affected over the past 12 months, with 57.6% reporting discomfort, while the lower back was the most affected in the last seven days (21.4%). Work ability was rated as excellent by 24.5% of participants and good by 51.7%. In the regression analysis, no significant association was found between socioeconomic factors and MSD during either time period. However, bivariate analysis showed that dentists who were overweight and those aged 34 years or older reported significantly more knee-related MSD in the past seven days (p=0.033 and p=0.037, respectively). Despite the high prevalence of MSD among dentists, more than three-fourths reported good or excellent work ability. Implementing mandatory ergonomic assessments and interventions in dental workplaces may help reduce MSD among dentists.