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Influence of stabilization occlusal splint on craniocervical relationships. Part II: Electromyographic analysis
H Santander1, R Miralles, A Jimenez
1Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile.
Cranio : the Journal of Craniomandibular Practice
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Stabilization occlusal splints reduced electromyographic (EMG) activity in the sternocleidomastoid muscle during swallowing and tonic states. However, the trapezius muscle showed no significant changes, indicating differential effects on neck muscle activity.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Dentistry
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Muscle spasms in the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles can cause significant discomfort and functional limitations.
- Electromyography (EMG) is a key diagnostic tool for assessing muscle electrical activity and identifying neuromuscular disorders.
- Occlusal splints are commonly used in dentistry to manage temporomandibular joint disorders and bruxism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of stabilization occlusal splints on the electromyographic (EMG) activity of the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles.
- To determine if occlusal splints can modulate muscle activity in individuals experiencing spasms in these neck muscles.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 15 subjects with sternocleidomastoid and/or trapezius muscle spasms participated in the study.
- Each subject was fitted with a full-arch maxillary stabilization occlusal splint.
- EMG activity was recorded from the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles during various tasks, including tonic contraction, saliva swallowing, and maximal clenching.
Main Results:
- The sternocleidomastoid muscle exhibited a significant decrease in EMG activity during both tonic states and saliva swallowing when the occlusal splint was in place.
- Maximal clenching activity in the sternocleidomastoid muscle did not show significant changes with splint use.
- No significant changes in EMG activity were observed in the trapezius muscle in response to the occlusal splint.
Conclusions:
- Stabilization occlusal splints appear to modulate EMG activity in the sternocleidomastoid muscle, particularly during swallowing and tonic states, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit.
- The lack of effect on the trapezius muscle indicates a differential response between these two muscle groups.
- These findings suggest that occlusal splints may influence motor neuron pools differently, potentially through peripheral and/or central mechanisms, warranting further investigation into the neurophysiological underpinnings.