Clinical

Dr. Bethany Valachi, PT, DPT, MS, CEAS is DPR’s ergonomics editor and author of the book,“Practice Dentistry Pain-Free” and clinical instructor of ergonomics at OHSU School of Dentistry in Portland, Ore. She is also the author of the evidence-based "Online Dental Ergonomic & Wellness System for Dental Professionals." A physical therapist who has worked exclusively with dental professionals for more than 15 years, she is recognized internationally as an expert in dental ergonomics, and has been invited to lecture at more than 300 conferences worldwide. She has published more than 50 articles in peer-reviewed dental journals and has developed patient positioning and exercise DVDs specifically for dental professionals. Bethany offers free newsletters, articles, videos and product reviews on her website at www.posturedontics.com and can be reached at info@posturedontics.com.

Articles

Despite limited access to gyms and group exercise opportunities, dental professionals must get regular exercise during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

The Best Types of Exercise for Dentists During the Pandemic

Movement and posture are key in staying pain-free during the delivery of dental care.

Moving toward a pain-free practice

Headaches can be caused by neck pain in one of the most-used muscles during the delivery of dental care.


Ergonomics: A headache behind the eye

A seat at the center of everything – A roundup of dental patient chairs

Exercise is good for your health, but certain workouts can actually cause pain for the dental professional. 

Exercise for the New Year: Is a personal trainer the right choice for you?

Merideth Sweeney, BHSc RDH is a practicing clinical hygienist in Southern California. She has been in the dental field for 20 years and is a graduate of the Cerritos College Dental Hygiene Program. Her professional passion is advocating for the prevention of MSD’s through evidence-based ergonomics. She is actively pursuing an additional master's degree in healthcare administration through Excelsior College. 

How self-care is more than just a ‘buzzword’ and why it’s important for hygienists.

Support self-care to sustain your most important assets: Your hygienists

Here’s why you should replace superman with the bird dog.

One exercise dentists should never do

Loupes are an expensive investment that should last you many years. Find a loupe that will improve your health-not make it worse.  


Could my new loupes be causing neck pain?

All three types of exercise offer important benefits for dentists. Learn how to incorporate all of them in only 30 minutes per day.

Dear Bethany: As a full-time dentist, I have constraints on my available time to exercise. Where should I put my emphasis in my exercise routine? Should I focus more on aerobic exercise, stretching or strengthening?

Aerobic, stretching or strengthening: Which is the best exercise for dentists?

How to design a practice with proper function and flow.