There are other side effects and occupational hazards besides the musculoskeletal health problems of dental professionals relating to prolonged static postures, or PSP, as noted in the recent two-part series by Ms. Bethany and Dr. Keith Valachi ("Mechanisms Leading to Musculoskeletal Disorders in Dentistry," October JADA; and "Preventing Musculoskeletal Disorders in Clinical Dentistry: Strategies to Address the Mechanisms Leading to Musculoskeletal Disorders," December JADA).
During my dental school days, students used to stand at the chair, and some developed varicose veins, phlebitis, fallen arches or scoliosis.
Today, the student is taught to sit at the chair, with a potential for developing hemorrhoids, a spreading gluteus maximus, a stiff neck, scoliosis or arthritic knee joints from prolonged inactivity.
In earlier years, patients sat upright, and could expectorate or regurgitate easily to clear their throats. Today’s dental patient is almost horizontal, and could choke to death or develop gastroesophageal reflux syndrome.
It’s a generational thing—occupational hazards!
