Affiliations: Division of Dental Hygiene, School of Dentistry,
University of Missouri Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Bonnie Branson, RDH, PhD, Associate
Professor, Division of Dental Hygiene, School of Dentistry, University of
Missouri Kansas City, 650 East 25th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA. Tel.:
+1 816 235 2053; Fax: +1 816 235 2157; E-mail: bransonb@umkc.edu
Abstract: Purpose: Evidence suggests that using magnification loupes will
improve the posture of dental clinicians, thus decreasing work-related
musculoskeletal disorders. The purpose of this case study was to document the
experiences of a dental hygienist during a four week acclimatization
period. Methods: Documentation was comprised of self-reports from the dental
hygienist's reflective journaling and postural measurements made by a trained
observer using Branson's Posture Assessment Instrument (BPAI), a validated
posture assessment instrument. Journal reports and postural measurements were
made prior to the use of the magnification loupes and over the subsequent three
week trial. Conclusion: Use of the magnification loupes was a positive
experience. The BPAI results indicated a positive change in neck and low back
posture. Further trials of the effectiveness of magnification loupes in
reducing musculoskeletal disorders with this occupational group are
recommended.
