CONCLUSIONS Based on a limited number of studies , the use of ergonomic saddle seats and dental loupes leads to improved working postures .
The use of loupes appears to relieve shoulder , arm and h and pain .
However , their effect on neck pain is scarce .
None of the studies reported on the effect of the saddle seats on musculoskeletal pain .
OBJECTIVES Musculoskeletal disorders affect a high percentage of dentists , dental hygienists and therapists .
Static and awkward working postures are considered as major risk factors .
Proper seat selection and use of magnification loupes are promoted for their ergonomic benefits .
The aim of this review was to evaluate the existing empirical evidence on the effect of the above interventions on ( i ) correction of poor posture and ( ii ) reduction in musculoskeletal pain .
Evaluation of ergonomic factors and postures that cause muscle pains in dentistry students’ bodies
Background Work-related musculoskeletal disorders commonly experienced by dental professionals are one of the main occupational health problem affecting their health and well-being . This study was conducted to evaluate  ergonomic factors and profession-related postures  and also investigate relationship between demographic factors and work condition with pain in dental students . Material and Methods 60 freshman and sophomore dentistry students were r and omly chosen as the subjects of control group , and 60 of 5th and 6th-year students were selected as the members of exposure group . Data related to the subjects such as sex , doing exercise , severity of musculoskeletal pain were obtained through question naire . Students ’ postures were directly observed while treating patients and they were scored by REBA method . Data were analyzed by SPSS software using Man-Whitney , Kruskal-Wallis , Spearman and Kendall correlation tests . Results 80.8 % of the subjects were not aware of the correct ergonomic postures for dental procedures . Severity of musculoskeletal pain in the exposure group ( 15.9± 4.2 ) was significantly higher than the control group ( 10.5 ±3.2 ) , ( p < 0.001 ) . Risk of the most subjects ( 84 % ) was at the medium level . Students who were more involved in clinical activities experienced more muscular pains . Conclusions The musculoskeletal disorders are probable prolonged in working hours in static positions , incorrect work postures , implying more force and even tools and instruments . Therefore , students who are aware of ergonomic principals of their own profession would be able to maintain their health through activities and lifelong . Key words : Posture , dentistry , students , musculoskeletal pain
CONCLUSIONS Based on a limited number of studies , the use of ergonomic saddle seats and dental loupes leads to improved working postures .
The use of loupes appears to relieve shoulder , arm and h and pain .
However , their effect on neck pain is scarce .
None of the studies reported on the effect of the saddle seats on musculoskeletal pain .
OBJECTIVES Musculoskeletal disorders affect a high percentage of dentists , dental hygienists and therapists .
Static and awkward working postures are considered as major risk factors .
Proper seat selection and use of magnification loupes are promoted for their ergonomic benefits .
The aim of this review was to evaluate the existing empirical evidence on the effect of the above interventions on ( i ) correction of poor posture and ( ii ) reduction in musculoskeletal pain .