ASSOCIATION BETWEEN CERVICAL PAIN AND UPPER TRAPEZIUS MUSCLES DUE TO PROLONGED STATIC POSTURE AMONG DENTISTS

Cervical pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints among dental practitioners, often resulting from prolonged static postures required during clinical procedures. Such sustained positions impose excessive biomechanical stress on cervical and shoulder muscles, particularly the upper trapezius, leading to discomfort, functional limitations, and reduced work efficiency. Limited regional data exist on the prevalence, occupational risk factors, and biomechanical associations of cervical pain in dentists, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Quetta. Objective: To determine the association between cervical pain and upper trapezius muscle strain among dentists and to assess the impact of prolonged static postures on musculoskeletal health. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Quetta, Balochistan, over six months, involving 53 dentists aged 18–70 years. Inclusion criteria included chronic or recurrent neck or shoulder pain for more than three months. Those with severe underlying conditions, recent cervical surgery, or other contraindications were excluded. Data were collected through a self-structured questionnaire covering demographics, occupational factors, ergonomic practices, and pain characteristics, with responses recorded on a Likert scale. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, applying descriptive statistics, Pearson Chi-square, and likelihood ratio tests with a significance threshold of p ≤ 0.05. Results: Among participants, 54.7% were male and 45.3% female, with 60.4% working 6–10 hours daily. Pain in the upper trapezius was reported “Sometimes” to “Always” by 73.6% of respondents. The Pearson Chi-square test showed no significant association between cervical pain and upper trapezius strain (p = 0.110), whereas the likelihood ratio test revealed a statistically significant relationship (p = 0.022). Conclusion: Cervical pain in dentists is closely linked to upper trapezius muscle strain, largely influenced by prolonged static postures. Preventive measures, including ergonomic modifications, stretching exercises, and posture training, are essential to reduce strain and improve occupational health.