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Systemic Effects of Molar and Incisor Biting on Walking Direction With and Without Visual Feedback
Mohammad Reza Nourbakhsh1, Daeseon Kim1, Stanislaw Solnik1
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of North Georgia, Dahlonega, USA.
Journal of Motor Behavior
|December 18, 2024
Summary
Unilateral biting, especially on the right side, caused right-handed individuals to deviate while walking. This suggests a link between chewing and gait control, influenced by handedness.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomechanics
- Motor Control
Background:
- Gait stability and walking direction typically rely on somatosensory, visual, and vestibular systems.
- Emerging research highlights functional links between the masticatory (stomathognathic) system and neuromuscular functions.
- The stomatognathic system shows neurological integration with body systems involved in movement planning and execution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of unilateral molar and incisor biting on walking direction control.
- To examine these effects with and without visual feedback.
- To explore the potential influence of handedness on the relationship between mastication and gait.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-one healthy young adults (21-30 years) participated.
- Participants performed walking tasks under different unilateral biting conditions (molar, incisor) and with/without visual input.
- Walking direction errors (angle, position, curve) were quantified.
Main Results:
- In right-handed individuals, unilateral biting consistently led to deviations toward the biting side during walking.
- This effect was observed regardless of the presence or absence of visual feedback.
- Deviations were particularly notable during unilateral right biting in right-handed participants.
Conclusions:
- A complex interplay exists between masticatory function and gait control mechanisms.
- Handedness and potential cortical motor lateralization may influence this relationship.
- Findings provide a basis for further research into bite-location, visual feedback, and motor control, potentially informing interventions for gait disorders.
