Investigation of the effect of body stabilization training on postural control, upper extremity functionality, work performance and quality of life in dentists

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of trunk stabilization exercises on postural control, upper extremity functionality, working performance and quality of life in addition to standard posture exercises. Thirty dentists participated in the study. Control (n = 15) and study (n = 15) groups were determined by simple randomization method. Body stabilization and posture exercises were given to the study group and posture exercises to the control group. Both groups were evaluated before and after the 6-week exercise program. Demographic data and duration of the working were recorded. Strength and endurance of the muscles stabilizing the trunk were evaluated with a pressure biofeedback device. Stabilometry was used to evaluate postural control. Upper extremity functionality was measured by the Disability of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and fine motor skills were measured by the Purdue Pegboard Hand Function Test. Working performance was assessed using Work Role Functioning Questionnaire (WRFQ). The Short Form-12 (SF-12) was used to measure health-related quality of life. At the end of the training, activation and endurance of trunk stabilization, upper extremity functionality and working performance were significantly improved in the study group (p <0,05), but not significantly in the control group (p>0,05). The physical component score of SF-12 showed a significant improvement in the study group (p<0,05), whereas the mental component score showed a significant improvement in the control group (p<0,05). In the postural control evaluation, the anteroposterior postural oscillation value did not differ significantly in both groups (p>0,05), while the right-left postural oscillation value showed a significant difference in the control group (p<0,05). According to the results of our study, it was concluded that trunk stabilization exercises should be included in the routine exercise program of dentists in terms of development of deep trunk muscles, increasing upper extremity functionality and working performance. Key words: dentist, trunk stabilization, upper extremity, quality of life, working performance