'Back to Basics': A Self-Administered Survey of Undergraduate Dentists' Prevalence, Impact and Understanding of Lower Back Pain.

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this paper is to assess the prevalence, impact, and understanding of Lower Back Pain (LBP) amongst final year dental students to inform the development of a module in the dental curriculum. LBP has a significant impact on the dental workforce; yet little is reported about the profession's knowledge, or the necessity for tailored self-care education.

Materials and methods: A single-centred online survey was administered to final year dental students at a UK dental school. This used carefully selected criteria following the review of the limited validated evidence base, with a robust methodological approach to survey design.

Results: There was an 86% response rate. LBP is prevalent amongst dental students, with 58% experiencing LBP in the past 6 months. 29% had reduced recreational and professional activity as a result, and 14% had sought professional help. Understanding of LBP varied; 92% identified the practice of dentistry to be the greatest contributing factor, whilst 89% deemed correcting posture to be the most effective prevention method. A majority, 53%, believed LBP would resolve without treatment, although confidence in management was poor. Almost all responders supported inclusion of back pain education in undergraduate dental curricula.

Conclusion: This research has revealed a belief system that may have negative influences on dental professionals' lower back health. Dental professionals may lack education on musculoskeletal disorders and have a poor understanding of the prevention and management of LBP. The results have informed the development of a LBP module aiming to improve undergraduate awareness and positively impact future working life.