Prevalence of Neck and Lower Back Pain among Dentists from Three Dental Colleges in Patna City: A Questionnaire Study

Introduction: In the practice of dentistry, stress, tension, and postural practices can contribute to neck and lower backache problems. Considering the importance of this problem, we considered it was necessary to investigate the prevalence and severity of these problems in this part of eastern India. Purpose: To assess the prevalence, severity, and extent of lower back and neck pain among dentists of three dental colleges of Patna and to suggest/advice preventive measures. Materials and Methods: 121 dentists from three dental colleges in Patna were surveyed to determine the prevalence of neck and lower back pain (73 males and 48 females). The dentists were interviewed with the help of a questionnaire. Result: The data obtained and showed that (88) 72.80% of the dentists had suffered with the problem, sometimes during their practice of dentistry. 38.01% of dentists complained of the lumbar pain. 13.02% had pain in the cervical area, and 24.04% of the dentists had pain in both the areas. Only 39.54% of those complaining of a backache sought medical help. 57.85% of dentists opted exercise and yoga as treatment modalities to relieve the pain. Conclusion: The neck and lower back pain is largely prevalent in dental practitioners though not of very severe degree. Preventive aerobic and relaxation exercises should be included in weekly activities of dentists to prevent recurrence of this problem.