OC Elite Recovery located in San Clemente, CA helps prolong dental careers pain free. Dental professional frequently have to maintain awkward positions for extended periods of time, which can lead to muscle fatigue, tension, and pain. Medical massage can reduce inflammation , promote tissue repair for Dentists ,Orthodontists, Dental Hygienists ,Dental Assistants , Dental Lab Technicians , Dental Office Managers who may experience neck, shoulder, and back pain due to their work posture & promote longevity in their careers.
Most Common Trigger Points for Dental Professionals Are:
9 Commonly Injured Muscles for Dental Professionals:
The most commonly used muscles in the dental field are those in the neck, shoulders, and back, as these areas are under strain due to the nature of the work. Repetitive use injuries in the dental field can include carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and trigger finger, among others. Therapeutic massage can help give dental professionals longevity in their careers by:
Alleviating muscle tension and pain in the neck, shoulders, and back.
Improving circulation and lymphatic drainage to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
Reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which can enhance mental clarity and focus.
Improving joint mobility and range of motion to prevent or reduce the risk of developing chronic pain or injuries.
Addressing imbalances in the body and restoring proper alignment, which can help prevent injuries and promote overall physical health and wellbeing.
We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy and pain-free body, especially in a profession where physical demands are high. Our goal is to provide the best possible care to help you achieve optimal physical health and longevity in your career.
Upper Trapezius Muscle: This muscle, which runs from the base of the skull to the shoulder, is commonly affected due to the sustained postures that are required during dental procedures.
Levator scapulae muscle: This muscle runs from the neck to the shoulder blade and is commonly affected by sustained head rotation and flexion required during dental work.
Sternocleido-mastoid muscle: This muscle runs from the base of the skull to the collarbone and is commonly affected by prolonged head rotation.
Scalene muscles: These muscles are located in the neck and are commonly affected by sustained head tilt and rotation.
Masseter muscle: This muscle is located in the jaw and is commonly affected by clenching and grinding during dental work.
Temporalis muscle: This muscle is also located in the jaw and is commonly affected by clenching and grinding during dental work.
Suboccipital muscle: These muscles are located at the base of the skull and are commonly affected by sustained head forward posture.
Longissimus muscle: The Longissimus muscle is a long, thin muscle that runs along the spine and is primarily involved in maintaining posture and assisting with movement of the trunk and head.
Psoas muscle: The psoas muscle is a deep muscle that connects the lower spine to the upper thigh bone. Dentists may overuse this muscle while sitting for long periods in a hunched position, leading to lower back pain and hip discomfort
How Can Soft Tissue Therapy Benefit Dental Professionals?
As mentioned earlier, dental professionals spend most of their time in static positions, such as sitting or standing, which can lead to chronic pain and injuries. For instance, dentists may suffer from neck and shoulder pain due to the prolonged periods of holding the head in one position, while dental hygienists may experience wrist and hand pain from repetitive motions.
Neuromuscular massage can alleviate these pains and prevent injuries by increasing blood flow, which helps to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation. The treatment can also improve range of motion, flexibility, and posture, which are crucial for dental professionals who spend hours in the same position.
Moreover, neuromuscular massage can also have a positive impact on mental health. Chronic pain can lead to depression and anxiety, and reducing pain levels can improve mood and decrease stress levels.
How to Incorporate Soft Tissue Therapy into Your Practice:
Dental professionals can incorporate neuromuscular massage into their practice by working with a licensed massage therapist who specializes in this technique. The therapist can provide on-site massages during breaks or after work hours, allowing dental professionals to reap the benefits of the treatment without interrupting their practice.
Another way to incorporate neuromuscular massage is by encouraging patients to seek this type of therapy if they suffer from dental-related pain or discomfort. Dental professionals can refer patients to a licensed neuromuscular massage therapist, who can provide tailored treatment plans to alleviate pain and improve overall well-being
Pain has a pattern. When you come in for your session there is no guessing what soft tissue is contributing to your pain we are well verse in the pain patterns of the body. Your nervous system is the command center for your body the nerve trunk that supplies a specific joint also supplies the muscles of the joint, as well as the tendons, skin and related muscles. This complex system regulates your body’s systems & guides almost everything you do and allows you to experience your environment. The nervous system holds the key to the body’s incredible potential to heal itself.
Tiffany Sandoval
Hi I'm Tiffany Sandoval, OC's trusted Elite Pain Relief & Mobility Expert with over 13 years. My expertise is backed by certifications in Neuromuscular Therapy, FST-Neuromyofascial Tissue Practice, and Vodder Certified Manual Lymph Drainage, allowing me to offer specialized care tailored to your needs. Let's work together to unlock your body's potential, regain mobility, and pave the way for a pain-free, active lifestyle. Connect with her here or on LinkedIn.