Prevalence of RSI/WMSD in different dental specialties

Scientific literature shows that dental surgeons are predisposed to developing repetitive strain injuries/work-related musculoskeletal disorders (RSI/WMSDs), due to their positions while working in the profession. However, there are few and controversial studies that indicate which specialty is the most predisposing. Therefore, this study set out to identify the prevalence of RSI/WMSD in different specialties among dentists in Porto Velho - RO. To this end, the international DASH (Disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand) questionnaire was applied to 100 dentists distributed proportionally across the North, South, East and West zones of the city of Porto Velho - RO. The results of the DASH dysfunction measures showed a statistical association with the shortest time since graduation (up to ten years) and the specialties of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Traumatology, Implant Dentistry and Stomatology. We therefore conclude that it is necessary for dental surgeons specializing in these areas and recent graduates to carry out a self-assessment and check whether they are neglecting ergonomic standards in order to adapt to them.