What are Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs)?

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are commonly experienced among dental professionals and are one of the main occupational health problems affecting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

“WMSDs can be defined as painful injuries affecting the muscles, nerves, bones, ligaments, and tendons that are primarily caused by poor work performance and the effects of the working environment.” ^[1]

Due to the demanding nature of a dental professional’s job and the poor working conditions that they are presented with, they are more at risk for developing WMSDs and pain. It is critical that both current and future dental professionals have a solid understanding of the different risk factors associated with developing WMSDs so they can implement change and use evidence-based interventions that promotes a well-balance lifestyle and working environment. Listed below are several different risk factors that contribute to WMSDs, some of which can be controlled and others, which cannot.

Understanding and managing these risk factors, if able, can contribute to improved mental and physical health, leading to career longevity and increased work productivity. The next chapter highlights the primary methods to manage some of the risk factors listed below to reduce the occurrence of WMSDs and associated musculoskeletal pain.