Back & neck problems among dentists and dental auxiliaries

In the practice of dentistry, stress, tension, and postural practices can contribute to back and neck problems. Two hundred and four dentists and dental auxiliary (87 males and 117 females) in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia were surveyed to determine the prevalence of postural problems. The candidates were interviewed and observed during practice. The data obtained showed that 111 (54.4%) of the subjects complained of neck pain and 150 (73.5%) complained of back pain. Only 37% of those complaining of back pain sought medical help. Within the limitations of this study, it might be concluded that neck and back pain among dental personnel are not of a severe nature.