Comparison of muscle activity associated with structural differences in dental hygiene mirrors.

Purpose: Ergonomic studies suggest that the commonly used pinch grasp, held in a static position, is a contributing factor for dental Hygienists' development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) such as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), Trigger Thumb, de Quervain's stenosing tenosynovitis, and carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis. The pinch grasp is commonly used by the dental hygienist while holding the dental mirror in the non-dominant hand. In response to this concern, manufacturers are redesigning dental mirror handles.