Wrist Injury and Dentistry
Author(s): Dharsan R, Lakshminarayanan Arivarasu*
Abstract
In dentistry, two of the most commonly reported pain syndromes of the wrist occur in nearly the same area. Easily confused, but of entirely different origin, de Quervain’s disease is a painful inflammation of the tendons in the thumb, whereas osteoarthritis (OA) of the thumb is a degenerative joint process. Both appear frequently among dental professionals, since a primary risk factor is repetitive thumb use. These syndromes can be debilitating, and OA of the thumb can force early retirement, especially among dental hygienists. Therefore it is a good investment in your health to implement early ergonomic prevention strategies.