Cervical spine alignment and hyoid bone positioning with temporomandibular disorders

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Neurology
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are frequently associated with cervical spine dysfunctions.
• Understanding the structural and functional interplay between the TMJ and cervical spine is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate functional and structural differences in the head and neck between individuals with TMJ disorders and asymptomatic controls.
• To assess pain perception in specific cervical muscles and evaluate cervical spine alignment and hyoid bone positioning.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study comparing 17 individuals with TMJ disorders (TMD group) to 17 asymptomatic subjects.
• Outcome measures included palpation pain in sternocleidomastoideus, trapezius, and suboccipital muscles.
• Radiographic assessment of cervical spine alignment (Cobb method) and hyoid bone position.

Main Results:

• The TMD group reported significantly higher pain levels in all assessed cervical muscles compared to the control group (P < 0.0001).
• No statistically significant differences were observed between groups regarding cervical spine alignment parameters.
• Hyoid bone positioning relative to the cervical spine showed no significant differences between the TMD and control groups.

Conclusions:

• TMJ disorders are strongly correlated with increased pain sensitivity in cervical muscles.
• Cervical spine alignment and hyoid bone positioning do not appear to be significantly affected by TMJ disorders in this cohort.
• Further research may explore the mechanisms linking TMJ dysfunction to cervical muscle pain.