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Do malocclusion and Helkimo Index ≥ 5 correlate with body posture?
L Perillo1, B Femminella, D Farronato
1Department of Orthodontics, 2nd University of Naples, Naples, Italy
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|November 13, 2010
Summary
This study found limited evidence linking malocclusion and temporomandibular dysfunction (Helkimo Index ≥ 5) to significant body posture changes in young individuals. Only a combined group showed minor correlations, suggesting no clinically relevant associations.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Body Posture Analysis
- Pediatric Health
Background:
- The relationship between the stomatognathic system (including malocclusion) and overall body posture is debated.
- Previous research has yielded conflicting results regarding these correlations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential correlations between malocclusal traits and temporomandibular dysfunction (Helkimo Index ≥ 5) with body posture alterations.
- To assess these associations in children and young adults.
Main Methods:
- A study of 1178 subjects aged 11-19, categorized into control, malocclusion, Helkimo Index ≥ 5, and combined groups.
- Dental occlusion and body posture (static analysis, Fukuda stepping test) were assessed.
- Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were employed.
Main Results:
- Multivariate analysis indicated age and gender were primary factors influencing posture, not malocclusion or Helkimo Index.
- A combined malocclusion + Helkimo Index ≥ 5 group showed minor trunk asymmetry and Fukuda test differences.
- Increased overbite was weakly associated with better Fukuda test performance.
Conclusions:
- The study found minimal clinically relevant correlations between malocclusion, Helkimo Index ≥ 5, and body posture in the studied age group.
- Existing associations were small and not robust enough to support significant clinical links.
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