OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS FOR DENTISTS

[Drsumitra]

Ultrasound
Ultrasound is an extremely effective way to stimulate proper tissue healing. Sound waves are generated from a crystal vibrating inside the head of the ultrasound wand and then transmitted through sound conducting gel to the tissue. This allows the sound waves to break down unwanted scar tissue, increase circulation to the area, and help relax the musculature. This can be extremely beneficial in the case where the Myofascial Pain Syndrome has caused soft tissue irritation to the back. Ultrasound can only be used in the presence of a licensed health practitioner.

Ice Packs
Ice can be used in the initial 72 hours of an injury to reduce inflammation and numb the pain associated with Myofascial Pain Syndrome. One potential problem with ice is that temporarily it will tighten the musculature even more. Also it should be noted that ice should not be used for longer than 20 minutes to an area, as it will cause a reversal reaction which will allow the tissue to become more inflamed. For low back inflammation we recommend using a combined brace and ice gel pad to put a more firm pressure over the irritated area. This will also provide support over the injured area while providing ice therapy. Patients we surveyed feel that the brace and ice gel pad combination below works extremely well (see Soft Back Brace section for more information on bracing).

Hot Packs
Hot packs are useful for increasing circulation and thereby loosening up the muscle tissue. Waiting to use heat therapy until three days after the onset of when the initial irritation of the Myofascial Pain Syndrom first occurred will give the swelling a chance to go down, as heat increases the inflammation to the area. It is believed that moist heat is better than dry, as there is less possibility for dehydration to the musculature. We found a simple to use moist heat pack (depicted below) which contains beads that activate upon being heated up in a microwave to give off moist steam without adding water. This occurs from a natural process by which the beads retain moisture from the air. The ease of use, combined with the comfort of this product, make it a very popular therapy with the patients we survey