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Trapezius Myalgia: Making Dentistry a Pain in the Neck...or Head! |
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Pain in the upper trapezius muscles are a common problem in dentistry, resulting from improper patient positioning, emotional stress, improper strengthening as well as a number of other risk factors. And did you know that trigger points in this muscle can cause a 'headache' behind the eye? |
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| WHERE TO START?
It can be confusing to know where to begin in your journey to optimize your health. Research shows that certain interventions should be implemented before others. Download a FREE REPORT:The 6 Keys to Wellness in Dentistry: Essential Steps to Improve Your Musculoskeletal Health. |
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Shoulder Pain among Dental Professionals Issue #7 |
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| Greetings!
Shoulder pain is the most frequenly reported MSD among hygienists and ranks second for MSDs reported by dentists. This problem can become a debilitating injury for the dental professional if not addressed properly. In this newsletter, we will explore the 2 common shoulder pain syndromes among dental professionals: Frozen Shoulder Syndrome and Trapezius Myalgia. You will find new prevention and treatment tips for trapezius myalgia not previously discussed in my seminars or book, as well as brand new information on Frozen Shoulder Syndrome. I hope you enjoy the Ergo-News.
Bethany Valachi, PT, MS, CEAS
Dental Ergonomic Consultant/Lecturer/Physical therapist | |
WATCH A VIDEO EXCERPT FROM BETHANY'S "NECK, BACK & BEYOND" LECTURE |
 View an excerpt from Bethany's most popular lecture
EARN 5 CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS with Bethany's lecture DVD! Two out of three dental professionals experience work-related pain that can affect quality of life and productivity. Recorded live at the Hinman Meeting, this 2.5 hour seminar for dentists, hygienists and assistants bridges the gap between dental ergonomics and work-related pain so you can work longer, more comfortably, and with less fatigue. Delivered with high energy and humor, Bethany discusses how posture, movement, equipment selection, adjustment and operatory layout impact your health. Learn how to implement powerful evidence-based strategies to prevent pain and extend your career.
Includes live lecture on 2 DVDs with over 100 powerpoint slides throughout. Additional CD-ROM includes handouts, Q & A session, and CEU test link. Handouts are in .pdf format for easy duplication for groups.
For more information about the new Lecture DVD, click here. |
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FROZEN SHOULDER SYNDROME |
Perhaps nowhere in the body is the phrase, "if you don't use it you lose it" more applicable than to the shoulder joint. Frozen shoulder syndrome, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a gradual loss of movement resulting from tightening of the joint capsule. Although the exact cause is unknown in many cases, evidence points toward poor posture, post-traumatic injury, and lack of movement or exercise, as well as a multitude of hormonal and genetic predispositions. In dentistry, the obvious culprits are poor posture and prolonged, static postures.
Symptoms include lateral shoulder pain that worsens when lifting the arm above shoulder level. Sleeping on the shoulder may also be painful. Flexibility gradually worsens and makes everyday activities like fixing the hair, fastening a bra, or reaching into your back pant's pocket difficult.
Once it develops, the treatment for frozen shoulder is usually a long and painful rehabilitation, involving aggressive stretching exercises and mobilizations by a physical therapist to regain normal shoulder range of motion. Once it develops, frozen shoulder can take up to 3-5 months to resolve. Therefore, prevention is the wisest course of action.
Pectoralis Stretch
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To prevent this condition, dental professionals must take time for frequent stretches during the day that moves the shoulder into its many end ranges of movement: especially extension, flexion, abduction and internal rotation stretches must all be performed frequently during the day. One example of such a stretch is the Pectoralis Stretch. Clasp the hands behind the back and slowly bring the arms upward, until a gentle stretch is felt. Hold for 2-3 breath cycles and repeat. At home, a towel may be used behind the back to lift the opposite arm until a gentle stretch is felt. Hold 2-3 breath cycles and repeat. Never stretch in a painful range.
Towel Stretch
 | Additional examples of several chairside stretches that target frozen shoulder are at http://www.posturedontics.com/video_CS.php.
Applying moist heat prior to the stretch will help increase blood flow and improve flexibility. An excellent resource for a quick, microwavable moist hot pack is MediBeads Moist Heat Therapy packs, which are available at www.painreliever.com and other sites as well. These packs are also excellent for treating trapezius myalgia. |
Posturedontics, LLC was developed by a dental ergonomic consultant/physical therapist and clinical dentist to provide dental professionals with quality, research-based ergonomic education, products and resources. We value your input and ideas for future newsletters.
Please send us your ergonomic success stories! | |
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