Neck Pain Severity and Work Ability Index: A Study of Tehran Dental Students

Considering the high prevalence of neck pain among dental professionals, as well as its adverse effects on the work activities and quality of life of dentists, this study investigates the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in dental students in addition to the relationship between the severity of neck pain and the ability to perform work.

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 108 senior dental students and residents participated. The data were collected through four questionnaires, including body map, neck pain and disability scale, neck disability index and work ability index. The data were analyzed through the SPSS software, version 25. Meanwhile, a P<0.05 was considered a significance level.

In this study, 85 out of 180 individuals (87.7%) experienced at least one musculoskeletal disorder. The most reported pain was in the neck (45.4%), back (36.1%), and right shoulder (31.5%), respectively. There was a relatively positive and significant relationship between neck pain intensity and inability to perform daily work (R=0.717, P≤0.01). Also, there was a reverse and significant relationship between neck pain intensity and the ability to work (R=0.384, P≤0.01). 

Musculoskeletal disorders are high among dental students and residents in universities of Tehran City, Iran. Meanwhile, neck pain is the most common disorder. The existence of this disorder affects the daily ability to work, which can reduce productivity, increase sick leave, and ultimately premature retirement.