Dental hygienists are at high risk of musculoskeletal disorders from the physical stresses that are part of their job tasks. In cooperation with the Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals and Kaiser Permanente Dental Care Program, LERC produced a training curriculum to address these problems, entitled “Preventing Musculoskeletal disorders: A Dental Hygiene Ergonomics Curriculum.” The curriculum covers topics including:

• The extent of musculoskeletal disorders among dental hygienists
• Recognizing specific ergonomic risk factors in dental hygiene
• Body mechanics
• Reducing ergonomic risks in dental hygiene through task analysis, redesign, and work practice modifications
• Exercise interventions to reduce musculoskeletal injuries
• Early identification and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders
• Establishing and maintaining an effective workplace ergonomics program.

Copies of the curriculum are available for $15 plus postage.

Contact:
Laurel Kincl