Speaker: Brian J. Wilkinson, PT, DPT, DHSc, CHT, CLT

Program Track: Professional Development

Course Description: Dental professionals are at a high risk of experiencing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), with estimates indicating that between 60% and 96% of the workplace is impacted. Faculty from the School of Dental Hygiene Studies and the School of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training at Pacific University collaborated to design a program to reduce MSDs among dental hygienists. A portion of this instruction involves the routine performance of the Core Four activity set after each clinic session. This movement set seeks to reverse the effects of repetitive, suboptimal movements performed routinely by hygienists. This interprofessional presentation by a Doctor of Physical Therapist would involve a hybrid-style workshop, where lecture elements would detail an overview of relevant anatomy, highlight positions and tasks associated with MSDs, and propose straightforward solutions that can be attained through corrective exercise. The lab portion of the presentation would include group instruction and performance of hygiene-specific warm-up activities and the Core Four movement routine.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze contributing factors and prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among dental hygienists to identify high-risk practices and affected anatomical regions.
• Evaluate evidence-based ergonomic and preventive strategies to mitigate occupational strain and improve clinical performance.
• Describe the vital elements of the Core Four method, and apply principles of corrective exercise to design sustainable habits that enhance adherence, group engagement, and long-term musculoskeletal health.

CE Credit Hours: 1.0

Course Recording Date: August 17, 2026

The American Dental Hygienists' Association is designated as an approved provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHADH (Jan. 1, 2026–Dec. 31, 2026). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit.

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is an approved provider of dental continuing education as recognized by the Dental Board of California, Provider #5238.