Oral Health and Dental Management

Abstract

Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders Amongst Oral Health Workers in Cameroon

Ashu Michael Agbor, Kamo Hilbert

Musculoskeletal disorders are common among oral health workers and are a negligible work related public health problem. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among oral health workers in Douala and Bafoussam, Cameroon. This is a cross sectional descriptive study using the standardized self-administered Nordic questionnaire to assess musculoskeletal symptoms among oral health workers. Eighty oral health workers participated in the study and the prevalence of musculo-skeletal disorder was 78.75%. Females were more affected and the common areas affected by musculoskeletal disorders were the neck 32 (40%), shoulders 8 (10%), lower back 42 (65%), wrists 5 (6.25%), lower legs 3 (3.7%), and the feet 12 (15%). Posture 51 (64.06%) was the most common risk factor associated with these disorders. The cost of management of these disorders varied between $20 and $1000 per week. In conclusion, there is a high prevalence of Musculoskeletal disorders among oral health workers. These Musculoskeletal disorders affect the daily practice of more than two thirds of dental practitioner.