The Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Jordanian Dentists after 10 Years of an Initial Survey and the Associated Risk Factors

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the change in prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dentists in Amman, the Jordanian capital over a 10-year period, as well as to identify the associated risk factors. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in 2020 using a stratified random sample of 200 dentists practicing in Amman, Jordan, who were not matched to the 2010 study participants; instead, comparisons were made between independent cross-sectional samples from the two time points. 134 males (mean age = 46.2±15.3 years) and 66 females (mean age = 43.2±12.6 years), were personally interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS and the association between MSD prevalence and risk factors was assessed using the chi-square test. P-value was set at the 0.05 level. Results: Most participants were general practitioners (82.5%). 79% of the participants suffered one or more MSDs: back pain (34.5%), neck pain (19%), shoulder pain (29%) and hand/wrist pain (43.5%). The prevalence of hand/wrist pain significantly increased in 2020 as compared to 2010. However, the prevalence of the other MSDs considered significantly decreased in 2020. Males reported more hand/wrist pain than females. Hand/wrist, pain shoulder pain, and back pain significantly increased among older dentists (p < 0.05). Hand/wrist pain, neck pain and back pain significantly increased among dentists with more years of experience (p < 0.05). More than a half of the participants were aware of the correct working postures (51.5%). The group with more awareness of healthy postures suffered less MSDs (p < 0.05). Hand/wrist pain was most prevalent among dentists who only worked while standing. Conclusions: Although MSDs have generally declined among dentists in Amman over the last decade, particularly regarding back pain, neck pain and shoulder pain, yet the increase in hand/wrest pain is still a burden which highlights the need for further training and continued education on occupational health and tailored interventions.