Dental News - Are you technologically and ergonomically balanced?

Renee Graham, USA

Mon. 14 November 2011

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Ergonomic and/or lightweight handpieces may help to reduce the risk of certain musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as carpal tunnel syndrome (Dong 2006). Advances in technology have provided improvements in ergonomics; thereby, helping to extend the longevity and careers of dental professionals. Improved technology along with normal and neutral positioning of the body, spine and hands will work together for positive health.

Over the years, poor posture can affect the musculoskeletal system, which can lead to other complicating health factors. Although, poor posture habits have been created throughout life, it is not too late to learn ergonomic principles that can contribute to a long-lasting, pain-free way to practice with less fatigue. Learning and practicing good posture while working should be one of the primary goals for increasing and continuing work efforts.

Another effort on the behalf of the clinician is to engage and embrace new technology and allow that technology to work for you. Many clinicians are intimidated by technology and hesitate to make changes, although these changes are for the best.

Repetitive stress injuries (RSI) are defined as cumulative trauma disorders resulting from prolonged repetitive, forceful or awkward movements. These movements result in damage to the muscles, tendons and nerves (Nainzadeh 1999).

Because clinicians are at risk for developing wrist injuries, ergonomic considerations are very important. The correct grasp on instruments, power scalers or dental equipment will help prevent RSI. The use of powered scaling devices is one of the prevailing recommendations for reducing these injuries. Ergonomically designed ultrasonic equipment includes scaling units with rotating cables and inserts with balanced handpieces. Power scalers must have a light modified pen grasp.

The advantages of the light grasp are tactile sensitivity, patient comfort and reduced fatigue. In addition, the clinician has the advantage of rolling the handpiece between the fingers to have continuous access to the tooth surface, line angles and interproximal and subgingival areas. In other words, the equipment is doing the work; the clinician is guiding it.

Another area of concern is the management of the cords coming off handpieces, equipment and units. Equipment that must have a power cord revisits the fact that improper management and poor design of the cords can increase drag on hand, wrist and arm. This in turn increases the risk of repetitive injuries, as your fingers must continually counter the force of the cord drag.

The new Midwest RDH Freedom handpiece is cordless, balanced, lightweight and easy to maneuver. Because of the diameter of the handpiece and lack of a cord, it takes less of a pinch grip and no drag to set up ergonomic advantages. This allows the hygienist to take any position around the patient’s head to maintain proper ergonomic angles in the arm and wrist. Combine these features with the cordless foot pedal and it predicts less fatigue and better ergonomics.

In a survey with hygienists, 100 percent of the hygienists approved of the weight of the cordless handpiece with the attached disposable prophy angle. In addition, 90.9 percent found that the Midwest RDH Freedom handpiece was easier to maneuver than a corded device. 93.9 percent of hygienists rated their fatigue light to none at the end of the day using the Midwest RDH Freedom handpiece versus only 33 percent indicating light to no fatigue when using their current polishing handpiece. A remarkable difference!

Modern technology supports ergonomics, and therefore, aids in promoting the longevity of the clinician and comfort for the patient when supported with proper posture and technique. Many times technology is not maximized to the fullest, therefore, limiting the benefits. Take advantage of modern advancements in engineering and design and allow your equipment to work for you.

Note: This article appeared in Hygiene Tribune U.S. Edition, Vol. 4 No. 9, September 2011. A complete list of references is available from the publisher.

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