Factors Related to Disorders of the Skeletal and Muscular Systems of Students in the Bachelor of Public Health Program Department of Dental Public Health, Sirindhorn College of Public Health, 4th Year Praboromarajchanok Institute

Abstract

This research study was a cross-sectional descriptive study. The purpose was to study factors associated with abnormalities of the skeletal and muscular systems among 4^th year students in the Bachelor of Public Health Program (Dental Public Health), Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Praboromarajchanok Institute. A total of 93 participants from seven colleges. Research tools were self-administered questionnaires which consisted of 4 parts, personal factors (gender, BMI, exercise index), physical factors, Suanprung Stress Test and body part of musculoskeletal disorders (Modified Standardised Nordic Questionnaires). that underwent reliability testing and a pilot test (try-out) (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient = 0.892). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistic including percentage, mean, frequency, standard deviation, as well as Chi-square and Fisher's exact test.

Results showed that 92.5% of participants had musculoskeletal system abnormalities at least one of body parts in the last 6 months. Most prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders were neck, shoulder and upper back pain 79.6%, 75.3% and 74.2% respectively. Gender was statistically related to wrist and hand pain. Body mass index (BMI) was statistically significant associated with wrist and hand, knee as well as ankle and foot pain. Exercise index was statistically significant correlated with upper back pain. Dental working environment was statistically significant associated with elbow, wrist and hand, knee, as well as ankle and foot pain (p-value <0.05). In contrast, posture and behavior in dental work and stress were not statistically significant associated with musculoskeletal disorders.

This research suggested that institutes should promote good ergonomics and suitable dental working environments for students in the Bachelor of Dental Public Health Program. Moreover, students should control their BMI and exercise regularly to protect themself from musculoskeletal disorders.