Bioelectrical Activity of Masticatory Muscles and Postural Stability Across TMD Subtypes

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Neurology
• Orthodontics

Background:

• Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are linked to posture and balance issues, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear.
• Investigating the relationship between specific TMD subtypes, masticatory muscle activity, and postural control is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore associations between TMD subtypes, masticatory muscle bioelectrical activity, and body posture/balance parameters.
• To determine if masticatory muscle activity influences postural control in individuals with TMD.

Main Methods:

• Case-control study with 48 TMD patients (myofascial, articular, mixed subtypes) and 33 controls.
• Assessed masticatory muscle activity via surface electromyography and body balance using a pedobarographic platform.
• Analyzed correlations between muscle activity indices, balance parameters (sway, contact area), and TMD subtypes.

Main Results:

• Weak to moderate negative correlations were observed between masticatory muscle activity and postural balance.
• Higher muscle activity indices were generally associated with improved postural balance.
• Distinct correlation patterns emerged across different TMD subtypes.

Conclusions:

• Multiple correlations exist between masticatory muscle activity and postural/balance parameters in TMDs.
• Evidence suggests potential subtype-specific patterns in TMDs affecting posture and balance.
• Further longitudinal research is required to confirm these preliminary findings.