Objectives: To investigate the change in prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)

among dentists in Amman, the Jordanian capital over 10 years period, and to identify the associated risk factors. In addition to determine if the improved ergonomic training has led to reduction in MSDs among dentists in Amman.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in 2020 using stratified random sample of 200 dentists practicing in Amman, Jordan, who were not matched to the 2010 study participants; instead, comparisons were made between independent cross-sectional samples from the two time points. 134 males (mean age = 46.2±15.3 years) and 66 females (mean age = 43.2±12.6 years), were personally interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed age, sex, presence of MSDs, daily working hours, years of experience, working position, participants' knowledge of correct working posture, and the employment of a dental assistant. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Data were analyzed using SPSS and the association between MSD prevalence and risk factors were assessed using the Chi-square test. P value was set at the 0.05 level.

Results: Most participants were general practitioners (82.5%). 79% of the participants suffered

one or more MSDs: back pain (34.5%), neck pain (19%), shoulder pain (29%) and hand/wrist

pain (43.5%). The prevalence of Hand/wrist pain significantly increased in 2020 as compared to

2010. However, the prevalence of the other MSDs considered significantly decreased in 2020.

Males reported more hand/wrist pain than females. Hand/wrist, shoulder and back pain

significantly increased among older dentists (p < 0.05). Hand/wrist, neck and back pain significantly increased among dentists with more years of experience pain (p < 0.05). More than half of the participants were aware of the correct working postures (51.5%). The group with more awareness of healthy postures suffered less MSDs (p < 0.05).  Hand/wrist pain was most prevalent among dentists who only worked while standing.

Conclusion: Although MSDs have generally declined among dentists in Amman over the last decade particularly in back, neck and shoulder pain, yet the increase in hand/wrest pain is still a burden which highlights the need for further training and continued education on occupational health and tailored interventions.