Immediate Cervical Muscle Response to Optimal Occlusal Positioning: A Crucial Part of Concussion Risk Management

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Neurology

Background:

• Strong cervical musculature is crucial for mitigating sports-related concussions.
• Jaw clenching may activate cervical muscles, potentially reducing head acceleration during impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the immediate effects of a customized interocclusal orthotic (CIO) on cervical muscle performance.
• To assess if optimized jaw alignment can enhance cervical strength and endurance.

Main Methods:

• An observational cohort study involving 42 healthy adults (≥18 years).
• Cervical muscle strength and endurance were tested with and without a CIO using isometric contractions and a digital pressure gauge.
• Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and two-way repeated-measures MANOVA.

Main Results:

• CIO use significantly improved cervical muscle strength across all tested directions (e.g., forward flexion +12.96%, right rotation +19.03%).
• Significant gains in cervical muscle endurance were observed, with flexor endurance improving by 44.57%.
• All improvements demonstrated statistically significant results with large effect sizes.

Conclusions:

• Optimized jaw alignment via a CIO can immediately enhance cervical strength and endurance.
• This suggests a potential role for customized orthotics as an adjunct in concussion risk mitigation strategies for contact sports athletes.