[Profession-related disorders of the locomotor apparatus. A multi-causal problem?]

This article provides information on the prevention of disorders among dentists and dental hygienists, for instance neck, shoulders, upper extremity, wrist and hand disorders. Many daily (strained) operating postures are described, and research data from the Sonde prevention project is mentioned. This data is compared with the newly implemented NEN-ISO-standard 11226. The standard lists the limits of static working postures. It becomes clear from this data that many dentists exceed these limits daily and work in overstrained postures. The article will further go into the complicated interrelationship of and connection between various interactive factors which intentionally and often unintentionally lead to static use of muscles. It may be a matter of cumulative effects that are multi-causally related, with the possible consequences. A further awakening within the dental profession, conditioning of young students into adopting a correct operating posture and purchasing ergonomically sound equipment may contribute to a healthier situation.