5 ways for dentists and dental hygienists to reduce back pain

1. Sitting active and upright reduces back pain for dentists

Sitting upright is important. Then the pelvis tilts a little forward, putting your spine in an S position. This way, your back is optimally loaded and the pressure on your intervertebral discs is even. When you sit down with your feet placed firmly and hip-width on the floor and your chest sticking out, you assume a good posture. Then adjust the working chair to the correct height. It is further advisable to adopt a relaxed posture.

2. Try to work dynamically as much as possible as a dental hygienist

As a dentist and dental hygienist, you work very precisely, in a small working area and often with great concentration. This long-term focus and the precise work can lead to a lack of variety and a strained posture. By alternating your sitting position and constantly moving, you prevent from cramping and getting physical problems. Besides moving around as much as possible, try to maintain a relaxed posture while working. For this reason, alternate between different sitting solutions such as a saddle chair and a tabouret or office chair.

3. Get up more often

To reduce back pain as a dentist, it is therefor wise to move around more often. And those moments of movement can be found everywhere. For example, pick up your patients from the waiting room, stand up during (the start of) a conversation or go for a walk during the lunch break.

4. Stay fit to avoid back pain

Even after working hours, it is good to exercise. Regular exercise keeps you fit. You work on your condition as well on your right physical posture. Train your back and legs to strengthen your posture. When you exercise too much, you can exhaust your body, which of course can worsen your posture. Exercising in moderation will give you more energy and so it is more likely that you will maintain the right posture during the day.

5. Ergonomic workplace for dentists

An ergonomic workplace is incredibly important for dentists and dental hygienists. This mainly concerns the combination of optimal work posture and workplace. Because this workplace is alternated from computer work to the place where people work with patients, it differs what the most optimal posture is. Therefor make sure that the desk where you work on the computer can be raised, so you can work standing up if necessary. Furthermore, the chair you sit on should be adjusted to your body.

Saddle chair as an optimal sitting solution

For work with patients, a saddle chair is a good seating solution for dentists and dental hygienists. A saddle chair lends itself well within this industry, provided you adjust it properly. A saddle chair that is adjusted to you will ensure that your spine is in the desired S-shape.

Curious about the seating solution that suits you? At Score you will find a wide range of seating solutions such as office chairs and saddle chairs. Prevent or reduce back pain with the optimal seating solution for you and create an ergonomic workplace. Take a look at our offer on the website or contact us.