Correlation between cervical spine and temporomandibular disorders

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Orthopedics
• Dentistry

Background:

• Established neuroanatomical and neurophysiological links exist between the orofacial region and the cervical spine.
• Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and cervical spine disorders are common conditions that may share underlying pathomechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential correlations between clinical indicators of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and cervical spine dysfunction.
• To screen for associations between symptoms of TMD and objective findings in the cervical spine.

Main Methods:

• A single-blind study involving 31 patients with TMD symptoms and 30 healthy controls.
• Standardized clinical examinations assessed masticatory system function (mandibular range of motion, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function, pain) and cervical spine status (segmental limitations, muscle tenderness, hyperalgesia, hypermobility).
• Specific muscle groups (m. sternocleidomastoideus, m. trapezius) and cervical levels (C0-C3) were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Significantly higher prevalence of segmental limitations, particularly at C0-C3 levels, in TMD patients compared to controls.
• Increased presence of tender points in the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles observed in the TMD patient group.
• Hyperalgesia was exclusively identified in the TMD patient group, affecting 12-16% of individuals.

Conclusions:

• Clinical findings suggest a significant association between temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and specific cervical spine abnormalities.
• Segmental limitations and muscle tender points in the upper cervical spine (C0-C3) are more prevalent in individuals with TMD.
• These results highlight the potential interplay between orofacial and cervical spine health.