[Neck, shoulder and back problems in dentists]

Many dentists suffer from pains in the region of the neck, the shoulder and the back, which are due to the unphysiological body positions dentists take during their daily work. In many cases these unphysiological body positions damage the skeleton and the muscular system. This paper discusses the pathophysiological mechanisms which are responsible for these damages in detail. Additionally, suggestions for prevention, therapeutical advice and a gymnastic training program especially for dentists are given.