The relationship between musculoskeletal pain and social-psychological factors among dental practitioners / 대한구강보건학회지

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between musculoskeletal pain and social psychological factors among dental practitioners. METHODS: A total of 497 dental practitioners who worked in 20 dental clinics and hospitals between June 9 and June 30, 2011 were enrolled in this study. The participants' stress level was measured using the PWI-SF (Psychosoical Well-Being Index-Short Form), a psychosocial health measurement tool, and their musculoskeletal pain was measured using a table that was revised and supplemented by the Korea Occupational Safety Health Agency. Statistical analysis was carried out through frequency analysis, chi-square test, and correlation analysis, using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 18.0. RESULTS: Analyzing the relationship between musculoskeletal pain and social-psychological factors of dental practitioners revealed satisfaction has a significant effect on the level of musculoskeletal pain experienced (P<0.05). Notably, salary satisfaction showed a significant influence on the degree of leg musculoskeletal pain (r=−0.140) and lower back pain (r=−0.204; P<0.05) experienced. Satisfaction in their own welfare (r=−0.157) and amount of time spent working (r=−0.135) showed a significant influence on the degree of leg musculoskeletal pain experienced (P<0.05). The level of pain experienced was higher as the level of stress risk increased (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The level of musculoskeletal pain experienced by dental practitioners was highly related to social-psychological factors. In order to reduce the human and economic losses due to musculoskeletal diseases, continuous preventive care must be provided. Social psychological factors, such as details of job satisfaction and stress, should be taken into account along with physical management of musculoskeletal disorders.