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[Effects of lateral mandibular deviation on masseter muscle activity]
1First Department of Prosthodontics, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan.
Summary
The masseter jaw-jerk reflex increases with mandibular deviation, aiding in the clinical detection of small jaw misalignments. This reflex response provides valuable insights into masticatory muscle function during lateral jaw movements.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Biomechanics
- Neuromuscular studies
Context:
- Masticatory muscle response to mandibular deviation is clinically significant.
- Understanding masseter muscle function during lateral deviation is crucial for diagnosis.
Purpose:
- To investigate the effects of varying degrees of lateral mandibular deviation on masseter muscle activity.
- To examine the relationship between mandibular position and the jaw-jerk reflex amplitude.
Summary:
- Five healthy subjects underwent passive mandibular deviations (0.5-3.0 mm) from rest position.
- Electromyographic activity and jaw-jerk reflex amplitudes of the masseter muscles were recorded.
- Increased background activity and reflex amplitude were observed on the mediotrusive side, proportional to deviation, up to approximately 2-3 mm.
Impact:
- The masseter jaw-jerk reflex shows potential as a non-invasive clinical tool for assessing small mandibular deviations.
- Findings suggest that this reflex can aid in the early detection of subtle changes in jaw position and muscle function.