The Relationship Between Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders Amongst Dental Students.

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems affecting dental professionals and students. However, evidence linking ergonomic knowledge, attitude, and practices with MSDs remains limited.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among clinical undergraduate dental students, interns, and postgraduate trainees at a tertiary academic institution in the United Arab Emirates. A total of 240 participants completed a validated online survey assessing sociodemographic characteristics, work-related factors, ergonomic knowledge, attitudes, practices, and musculoskeletal health status. Associations between participant characteristics, ergonomic factors, and MSDs were evaluated using Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Results: Overall, participants demonstrated a high level of awareness of general ergonomics and a moderate level of practice. A significant association was observed between working ≥6 h per day and ergonomic knowledge (p = 0.019). Similarly the use of magnification devices was significantly associated with higher ergonomic knowledge (p = 0.028) and better ergonomic practices (p < 0.001) compared with non use. The overall prevalence of MSDs among the participants was 75.0%; prevalence was significantly higher among participants aged 25 years or older, females, and those in more advanced stages of training (p < 0.05). Multivariable logistic regression analysis further identified age ≥25 years (OR = 7.45), female gender (OR = 2.91), poor ergonomic knowledge (OR = 11.97), and poor ergonomic practices (OR =10.66) as significant independent predictors of MSDs.

Conclusion: Although most participants demonstrated good ergonomic knowledge and positive attitudes, inconsistent ergonomic practices remained common, contributing to a high prevalence of MSDs. These findings highlight the need to strengthen practical ergonomic training and preventive measures within dental education.