Related Experiment Videos
Generalized joint laxity and temporomandibular disorders
F Perrini1, R H Tallents, R W Katzberg
1Eastman Dental Center, Rochester, New York, USA.
Journal of Orofacial Pain
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Generalized joint laxity is linked to temporomandibular disorders (TMD). This study found symptomatic individuals had significantly increased joint laxity compared to asymptomatic controls, suggesting a correlation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rheumatology
- Dental Medicine
Background:
- Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are complex and multifactorial.
- Ligamentous laxity has been proposed as a contributing factor to TMD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between generalized joint hypermobility and TMD.
- To determine if joint laxity is a risk factor for developing TMD.
Main Methods:
- Included 38 asymptomatic volunteers and 62 symptomatic TMD patients.
- Utilized the Beighton scale to assess generalized joint laxity.
- Performed bilateral MRI scans (sagittal and coronal views) for all subjects.
Main Results:
- Symptomatic TMD patients exhibited significantly greater joint laxity than asymptomatic controls (OR 4.0, P = .01).
- No significant difference in joint laxity was observed between male and female TMD patients (P > .05).
Conclusions:
- Generalized joint laxity is positively correlated with temporomandibular disorders.
- Joint hypermobility may be an important factor in the etiology of TMD.