Exercise-Based Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Dental Professionals

Abstract

Background: Dental professionals are at high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), especially affecting the neck, lower back, shoulders and upper extremities. Exercise-based interventions may help prevent and manage these conditions, but evidence in dental professionals remains limited.

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of exercise-based interventions for the prevention and management of musculoskeletal symptoms among dental professionals.

Material and methods: Literature published between 2003 and 2025 was reviewed using international scientific databases, primarily PubMed. Intervention, longitudinal, and cross-sectional studies, as well as systematic reviews and meta-analyses, were considered.

Results: Resistance-based and combined exercise programmes show beneficial effects on musculoskeletal outcomes, including pain, muscular capacity, endurance and disability. Evidence from broader populations with chronic low back pain also supports Pilates, strength, core-based and mind-body exercises, although these outcomes cannot be directly generalised to dental professionals. Optimal exercise dosage and long-term preventive effects remain insufficiently established.

Conclusions: Exercise-based interventions may be an important component of strategies for managing and preventing work-related MSDs in dentistry. Resistance and combined programmes show promising effects on pain and functional outcomes. Further well-designed studies are needed to establish optimal exercise dosage and long-term effectiveness. Integrating exercise and ergonomic education into dental training may support preventive behaviours and long-term musculoskeletal health.