Neck Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among Turkish Endodontists

Analysis of Neck Musculoskeletal Symptoms, Functional Parameters, and Associated Factors in Turkish Endodontists

This observational study aims to evaluate the prevalence, severity, and characteristics of neck musculoskeletal symptoms among Turkish endodontists. Endodontists are exposed to prolonged static postures and repetitive movements during clinical procedures, which may increase the risk of neck-related disorders.

Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires regarding demographic characteristics, occupational factors, ergonomic conditions, and neck pain. In addition, physical assessments including cervical range of motion, muscle strength, endurance, posture, and proprioception will be performed using validated measurement tools.

The study also aims to identify factors associated with neck pain, such as working conditions, posture, and clinical experience. The findings may help improve preventive strategies, ergonomic recommendations, and rehabilitation approaches for dental professionals.

Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most common occupational health problems in dental professionals, particularly affecting the cervical region. Endodontists are at increased risk due to prolonged static postures, repetitive fine motor movements, and the use of magnification devices such as microscopes.

This observational cross-sectional study aims to investigate neck musculoskeletal symptoms among Turkish endodontists and to analyze their relationship with functional parameters and occupational factors.

Participants aged 25-65 years who are actively working as endodontists in Turkey will be included. After providing informed consent, participants will complete a structured questionnaire including demographic data, occupational characteristics, ergonomic conditions, and neck pain parameters.

Physical evaluations will include:

• Cervical range of motion measured with a digital inclinometer,
• Isometric cervical muscle strength assessed using a handheld dynamometer,
• Deep cervical flexor muscle endurance evaluated using the craniocervical flexion test,
• Cervical joint position sense assessed using an inclinometer,
• Postural assessment using photographic analysis and a mobile posture analysis application.

Functional disability will be evaluated using the Neck Disability Index (NDI).

The primary objective is to determine the prevalence and severity of neck pain. Secondary objectives include identifying associated risk factors such as posture, working duration, ergonomic conditions, and clinical experience, as well as evaluating the relationship between neck pain and functional and biomechanical parameters.

The results of this study are expected to contribute to the understanding of occupational risk factors in endodontists and to guide preventive and therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing neck-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 25 to 65 years
• Actively practicing as an endodontist in Turkey in public institutions, university hospitals, or the private sector
• Willing and able to provide informed consent
• Endodontists with or without neck pain

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of cervical spine surgery within the last 3 months
• History of cervical spine infection within the last 3 months (e.g., spondylodiscitis)
• History of malignancy involving the cervical region
• Spinal cord compression due to tumor or another cause
• Presence of neurological deficit
• Inflammatory disease involving the cervical region, such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Use of muscle relaxant medication within the last 1 week