Where should a clinician's feet be positioned when seated?

Positioning a clinician's feet flat on the floor while seated is crucial for maintaining proper ergonomic posture during dental procedures. This position helps ensure that the clinician's weight is distributed evenly, reducing the risk of strain or fatigue in the lower back and legs. It promotes stability and balance while allowing for optimal movement and reach within the dental operatory.

Having feet flat on the floor aligns the individual's body properly and encourages a neutral spine position, which contributes to overall comfort and efficiency when performing dental tasks. Good foot placement also allows for better control of the clinician's body movements, making it easier to adjust posture as needed without straining.

In contrast, other positions such as resting feet on the footrest of the dental chair, on the assistant's stool, or crossing at the ankles can lead to uneven weight distribution, ultimately causing discomfort, decreased circulation, and an increased likelihood of musculoskeletal issues over time.