Component 03 Tidewater: Don't be Awkward: Preventing Injury from Awkward Postures Through the Use of Ergonomic Tools and Techniques

Title:

Don’t be Awkward: Preventing Injury from Awkward Postures Through the Use of Ergonomic Tools and Techniques

By: Theresa Pollizi from Andau Medical 

Course Description:

Why is preventing workplace injury so crucial to the dental profession? The most common injury for dental hygienists is musculoskeletal disorder. However, dental hygienists are not the only clinicians at risk. Any clinician operating in a static or repetitive movement is at risk. The solution is simple. Let’s look at how our bodies function when we are properly aligned and explore up to date ergonomic tools and techniques that help in reducing and preventing work-related injuries. This course will provide evidence-based ergonomic research with sound ergonomic principles that will guide attendees in understanding body mechanics, their risk of MSDs, and tools that can be used to reduce workplace injury to enhance whole body wellness.

This course will benefit all members of the dental team, especially students, dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental assistants, and EFDA’s.

Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:

1. Recognize the potential risks of work-place injuries.
2. Understand the role ergonomics plays in preventing MSDs.
3. Equip yourself with the proper armamentarium to work without pain in the dental profession.