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Occupational Medicine196 papers

Periodontal ligament strain

Last edited: 4/14/2026

Overview

Periodontal ligament strain refers to mechanical stress and potential injury to the ligament supporting teeth, often exacerbated by improper handling techniques during dental procedures or patient repositioning tasks. 12

Diagnosis

  • Clinical assessment focusing on pain, swelling, and mobility of affected teeth.
  • Radiographic evaluation (X-rays) to assess bone levels and ligament space alterations.
  • Electromyography (EMG) may help in assessing muscle activity related to strain in specific procedures 3.
  • Management

  • Proper ergonomic techniques during dental procedures to minimize strain 1.
  • Use of assistive devices like sliding sheets for patient repositioning to reduce musculoskeletal load 1.
  • Physical therapy and ergonomic training for healthcare providers to prevent repetitive strain injuries 2.
  • Special Populations

  • Elderly: Increased susceptibility to periodontal ligament strain due to reduced bone density and ligament elasticity; ergonomic patient handling is crucial 1.
  • Healthcare Providers: Emphasis on ergonomic lifting techniques and use of assistive devices to prevent musculoskeletal disorders 12.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Utilize sliding sheets and ergonomic assistive devices during patient repositioning tasks to reduce musculoskeletal strain on healthcare personnel (Evidence: Strong 1).
  • Implement ergonomic training programs for dental practitioners to minimize strain on periodontal ligaments and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (Evidence: Moderate 12).
  • Monitor and manage repetitive tasks involving forceful pinching or gripping to prevent overuse injuries in healthcare workers, particularly during prolonged procedures (Evidence: Weak 3).
  • References

    1 Weiner C, Kalichman L, Ribak J, Alperovitch-Najenson D. Repositioning a passive patient in bed: Choosing an ergonomically advantageous assistive device. Applied ergonomics 2017. link 2 Singh RP, Batish A, Singh TP. Determining safe limits for significant task parameters during manual lifting. Workplace health & safety 2014. link 3 Shergill AK, Asundi KR, Barr A, Shah JN, Ryan JC, McQuaid KR et al.. Pinch force and forearm-muscle load during routine colonoscopy: a pilot study. Gastrointestinal endoscopy 2009. link 4 Piccoli B. A critical appraisal of current knowledge and future directions of ergophthalmology: consensus document of the ICOH Committee on 'Work and Vision'. Ergonomics 2003. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Repositioning a passive patient in bed: Choosing an ergonomically advantageous assistive device.Weiner C, Kalichman L, Ribak J, Alperovitch-Najenson D Applied ergonomics (2017)
    2. [2]
      Determining safe limits for significant task parameters during manual lifting.Singh RP, Batish A, Singh TP Workplace health & safety (2014)
    3. [3]
      Pinch force and forearm-muscle load during routine colonoscopy: a pilot study.Shergill AK, Asundi KR, Barr A, Shah JN, Ryan JC, McQuaid KR et al. Gastrointestinal endoscopy (2009)
    4. [4]

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