Abstract
Background and aims: Nowadays, work-related musculoskeletal disorders are the most common occupational diseases. The prevention of these disorders requires a posture analysis during work and the improvement of working conditions. The purpose of this study was to determine risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders and corrective priorities to perform the work by conducting postures analysis using Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA).
Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, the posture of dentists during working was analyzed using the REBA software. The incidence rate of musculoskeletal disorders was investigated by the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). A P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: In this applied study, the incidence rates of the pain in neck, waist, shoulders, and wrists were reported to be 68%, 55%, 41% and 28%, respectively. The above-mentioned values were higher in women than in men. The pain in thigh and leg was related to work and the pain in ankle and sole was related to body mass index (BMI). The relationship between musculoskeletal disorders and occupational postures of dentists was statistically significant (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Training the principles of ergonomics and anthropometrics, the correct methods and principles of performing work, and the ways of using the instruments are necessary for the studied population. Occupational postures require ergonomic intervention and correction.