Musculoskeletal Disorders among Dental Surgeons in Bangladesh: The Role of Ergonomic Knowledge and Psychosocial Stress

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major occupational health concern among dental professionals due to prolonged static postures and repetitive movements. In addition to ergonomic factors, psychosocial stress may contribute to the development of MSDs. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of MSDs among dental surgeons in Bangladesh and to examine the role of ergonomic knowledge and psychosocial stress.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 dental surgeons working in public and private tertiary-level hospitals. Data were collected using a structured interview-administered questionnaire, including the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire for MSDs assessment, a validated tool for ergonomic knowledge, and a psychosocial stress questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data, and Chi-square tests were applied to assess associations, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Overall, 64.1% of participants reported experiencing MSDs in at least one body region during the past 12 months. The most commonly affected regions were the neck (61.5%), lower back (53.7%), and shoulders (51.9%). Most respondents (69.0%) had good ergonomic knowledge, while 49.3% experienced moderate level of psychosocial stress. No statistically significant association was found between ergonomic knowledge and MSDs (p = 0.065). However, psychosocial stress showed a strong and significant association with MSDs (p < 0.001), with higher prevalence observed among those with moderate to high stress levels.

Conclusion: MSDs are highly prevalent among dental surgeons in Bangladesh. While most practitioners possess good ergonomic knowledge, it was not significantly associated with MSD occurrence. In contrast, psychosocial stress emerged as a significant contributing factor. Comprehensive preventive strategies integrating both ergonomic training and stress management are essential to reduce the burden of MSDs among dental professionals.

J. Contemp. Dent. Sci. 2026;14(2): 13-16