man fixing his postureFor those doctors out there – you know that you never take your own advice.  Maybe the following article can help to shed some light on an ongoing epidemic in dental practices nationwide. For dental professionals, the majority of the visualization field is extremely demanding on posture. Because dentists are constantly leaning over their patients, they forget to utilize the correct posture.  Procedures are long, sometimes several hours, and very detailed. The muscles that posture how the mandible connects to the cranium are in the face, jaw and neck.  Over time, incorrect posture can create or exacerbate disorders, and increase chronic pain and fatigue.  Dentists are more vulnerable to occupational injuries than other professionals due to their posture during prolonged time periods for very intricate procedures.  In fact, more than 65% of dentists report job-related pain.

Musculoskeletal disorders can be prevented, however.  By being aware of your posture, keeping active outside of work, breaking between appointments and not working excessive hours, ultimate productivity can be achieved. Click this link for more information on posture as it relates to musculoskeletal problems in dentistry.