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Practice in Motion: Part I

COURSE NUMBER: 553

Credit Hours:

3 Hour(s)

The primary focus of this course is to educate dental professionals about efficient sitting positions and movements that assist with minimizing occupational pain and/or injury. As part of this course, we will examine why many practitioners ...

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Overview

The primary focus of this course is to educate dental professionals about efficient sitting positions and movements that assist with minimizing occupational pain and/or injury. As part of this course, we will examine why many practitioners need to change how they sit, discuss common postures/habits that contribute to lifelong pain and the consequences of not changing.


Dental professionals are exposed to several occupational risk factors that can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Biomechanical and physiological changes due to prolonged static postures, such as sitting, can lead to MSDs resulting in reduced work time or a career ending disability. Although literature of 60 years continues to cite this occupational problem through 2010, the scientific knowledge in biomechanics, kinesiology and occupational health has not been adequately translated into dental or dental hygiene practice. Suggestions to “find a neutral sitting position,” “maintain a neutral posture,” “keep the back straight” or “keeping the head fairly straight,” may be ambiguous and attempts to assume such positions may result in further discomfort or injury.


This course is designed to educate dental professionals about efficient sitting positions and movements that assist with minimizing occupational pain and/or injury. As part of this course, we will examine why many practitioners need to change how they sit, discuss common postures/habits that contribute to lifelong pain and the consequences of not changing. A review of the anatomy and the various pathologies associated with static positioning and poor posture will be presented. Proper alignment for postural control will be reviewed through video clip demonstrations, as will a sampling of stretches and strengthening routines that target various body regions. Many of these can be incorporated into daily practice routines during frequent short breaks to minimize stress to pain sensitive tissues.

  • Intended Audience:

    Dental Assistants, Dental Hygiene Students, Dental Hygienists, Dental Students, Dentists, Dental Assistant Students

  • Date Course Online:

    Dec 14, 2017

  • Last Revision Date:

    Dec 31, 2000

  • Course Expiration Date:

    Dec 13, 2020

  • Cost:

    Free

  • Method:

    Self-instructional

  • AGD Subject Code(s):

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:


  • Discuss the national scope and severity of musculoskeletal pain and disorders (MSDs).
  • Identify risk factors that contribute to MSDs.
  • Discuss the effects that prolonged static positioning can have on the spine and surrounding soft tissues.
  • Explain and demonstrate structurally stable sitting positions and movement strategies to minimize injury and improve postural control.

Disclaimers

Participants must always be aware of the hazards of using limited knowledge in integrating new techniques or procedures into their practice. Only sound evidence-based dentistry should be used in patient therapy. Note:  Registration is required to take test.

Author(s)

Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement

  • Jacquelyn Dylla reports no conflicts of interest associated with this course.
  • Jane Forrest has done consulting work for P&G.

Submission Information

Recognition

AGD Pace Logo

Approved PACE Program Provider

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY


Nationally Approved PACE Program Provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.

Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.


8/1/2021 to 7/31/2027

Provider ID# 211886