In dentistry it is always told about precision , patient care. But it often cost our own hands.Dentistry demands repetitive, fine motor movements , sustained wrist flexion which eventually turns into strain.
I have seen senior dentist ignore numbness, thinking it’s part of the job.It often start as numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation, particularly in the thumb and fingers, along with pain or discomfort in the wrist, hand, or forearm.
Prevention often begins with small clinical changes:
- Short micro brakes between patients
- Maintaining a neutral wrist position during procedures can significantly reduce nerve compression.
- Regular stretching of the wrist, fingers, and forearm.
Because prevention doesn’t start when pain appears rather it starts when comfort is taken seriously.
MBH/AB