Spinal posture, core muscle endurance, trunk position sense, and pain levels in dentists: A comparative study with healthy controls

Background Dentistry involves prolonged static postures and repetitive movements that place significant strain on the musculoskeletal system, potentially leading to postural alterations, impaired trunk position sense, and increased pain. Objective This study aimed to evaluate spinal posture, trunk position sense, and pain levels in dentists and compare them with healthy individuals. Methods A total of 36 dentists and 36 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included. Participants’ pain levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), physical activity levels using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form (IPAQ-SF), and quality of life using the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Trunk position sense, thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis angles, and core muscle endurance were assessed. Group comparisons were conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results A total of 36 dentists (median age: 29 years; 77.8% female) and 36 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (median age: 29 years; 75% female) were included. Dentists demonstrated significantly lower physical activity levels compared to controls ( p < 0.001). Additionally, lumbar lordosis angle ( p = 0.003) and core muscle endurance ( p = 0.009) were lower in dentists than in controls. Pain levels were higher in dentists both at rest and during activity. Conclusion Low physical activity, decreased core muscle endurance, and reduced lumbar lordosis may be associated with increased pain in dentists. Preventive physiotherapy interventions and regular exercise programs are recommended to reduce musculoskeletal complaints in this population.