Stop the Pain Before It Starts — How to Work Smarter, Not Harder in the Op
- Steph Botts
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever ended a long day in the op with an aching neck, sore shoulders, or tingling hands, you’re not alone. Most dental professionals accept this pain as “just part of the job” — but it doesn’t have to be.
The truth is, discomfort and burnout in dentistry usually start with how we position ourselves and our patients. Over time, poor posture and repetitive strain can lead to chronic musculoskeletal issues that shorten careers and make every day in the operatory feel harder than it should.
That’s why I created a series of on-demand courses and memberships designed to help you work comfortably and confidently — for the long haul.
Here's a video with some quick tips:
If you’re new to ergonomics or not sure where to start, my free introductory course is the perfect first step. You’ll learn the foundational posture principles that apply to every aspect of your day — from working on patients to charting, driving, and even scrolling on your phone.
👩⚕️ Operator Positioning
This course dives deeper into how you position yourself. You’ll learn how to use clock positions correctly, maintain a neutral spine, and reduce upper body tension. These small but powerful changes can drastically decrease muscle strain and improve your focus chairside.
Even perfect operator posture won’t help if your patient isn’t positioned properly. This course teaches you how to adjust the chair, headrest, and patient tilt to create ideal access and visibility — all while keeping your patient comfortable and your body in balance.
For those ready to take ergonomics to the next level, my monthly membership gives you access to both positioning courses, plus bonus tutorials, expert interviews, live events, and exclusive product discounts — all for a lower monthly price.
You’ll not only gain the tools to improve your posture and career longevity but also join a community of clinicians who are working smarter, not harder.
💬 The Bottom Line
Ergonomics isn’t about perfection — it’s about awareness and small daily improvements that protect your body and energy. Whether you’re exploring the free intro course or diving into the membership, there’s something for every clinician ready to take their comfort (and career) seriously.
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