Neuromuscular effects of temporomandibular joint dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Orthodontics
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a common condition.
• Cervical spine involvement can coexist with TMJ dysfunction.
• Neurological signs related to balance and coordination are not well-established in TMJ dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of balance and coordination deficits in patients with TMJ dysfunction.
• To determine if cervical spine involvement affects neurological findings in TMJ dysfunction patients.
• To explore the relationship between TMJ dysfunction and neurological mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• Standard clinical neurologic testing for balance and coordination was performed on neurologically intact male and female TMJ dysfunction patients.
• Patients were assessed with and without cervical spine involvement.
• Mandibular stress tests included lateral extension, wide opening, and biting down.

Main Results:

• Seventy percent of TMJ patients without cervical involvement exhibited positive signs for balance, coordination, and/or ataxia.
• These neurological signs were observed during specific mandibular stress maneuvers.
• Patient performance did not significantly differ between those with and without cervical involvement.

Conclusions:

• TMJ dysfunction is associated with significant balance and coordination deficits.
• Cervical spine involvement does not appear to significantly alter these neurological findings.
• Further research is indicated to understand the relationship between TMJ, auditory, visual, cerebellar, and coordination mechanisms.