Mandibular position influence on pilots' postural balance analyzed under dynamic conditions.

Area of Science:

• Aerospace Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Dental Science

Background:

• Postural stability is crucial for pilots.
• The stomatognathic system, including jaw position, may influence balance.
• Previous research on this link in aviators is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of mandibular position on postural stability in pilots.
• To compare postural stability between military and civilian pilots.
• To determine if the stomatognathic system significantly affects pilot balance.

Main Methods:

• 20 military and 17 civilian male pilots participated.
• Sensory Organization Test (SOT) using computerized dynamic posturography (EquiTest®) was performed.
• Equilibrium scores (ES) were analyzed in centric occlusion and mandibular rest positions.

Main Results:

• Equilibrium scores were slightly higher in centric occlusion compared to rest position.
• Civilian pilots exhibited marginally higher equilibrium scores than military pilots.
• Statistical analysis (two-way ANOVA) indicated no significant differences in these findings.

Conclusions:

• The composite parameter of the SOT may not be sensitive enough to detect minor influences of the stomatognathic system on pilot postural balance.
• Mandibular position does not appear to be a significant factor in the postural stability of the studied pilot groups.
• Further research may be needed to explore other potential biomechanical influences on pilot balance.