The impact of Ergoprism and Through-the-Lens loupes on neck and back muscle fatigue

Abstract

Background

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a significant occupational health risk for dental professionals. Poor ergonomic practices, improper tools, and awkward positions have been identified as causative factors to such disorders.

Purpose

To investigate the impact of Ergoprism loupes (E loupes) and Through-the-Lens loupes (T loupes) on neck and back muscle activity in senior dental hygiene students.

Methods

Sixteen participants (age 24.38 ± 4.24yrs; BMI 25.37 ± 4.95 kgm⁻²; 1 left-handed; 16 females) were recruited for the study. Eight participants were E loupe users, and the other eight were T loupe users. Their bilateral splenius capitis (SC), upper trapezius (UT), and middle trapezius (UT)] activity was measured using electromyography (EMG) at 0 min, 15 min, and 30 min of a simulation task over two days that are 90 days apart.

Results

There was a significantly greater mean and peak muscle activity in the dominant SC and UT muscles among T loupe users at 30 min of the simulation task.

Conclusions

The results demonstrated greater neck and back muscle fatigue on the dominant side among T loupe users at 30 min of the simulation task compared to the E loupe users.

Application

The study findings are crucial in understanding the importance of acquiring ergonomic tools at the workplace. The study also illustrates the importance of frequent rest intervals in order to minimize muscle fatigue among dental hygienists. Such practices will lead to healthy workers, reducing the number of days of absence from work and improving their productivity.