Mobility of the upper cervical spine and muscle performance of the deep flexors in women with temporomandibular disorders

Exploring postural dynamics and cervical functions in temporomandibular disorder patients: A comprehensive evaluation

OBJECTIVE

To investigate several postural parameters and upper cervical functions in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with different subtypes of TMD and healthy individuals without complaints of TMD were evaluated for pain, functional limitation, and anxiety by validated instruments. For evaluating upper cervical functions and postural parameters, cervical joint range of motion, cervical performance test, tragus wall distance, hamstring flexibility measurement, and measurement of the sacrum angle were recorded.

RESULTS

Pain and jaw functional limitation scores were statistically higher in all groups with TMD. Patients with internal derangement and myofascial pain were significantly linked to a severe limiting of functions, higher anxiety, and depression scores. Postural parameters and cervical functions were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

Although postural parameters and cervical functions remained unaffected, parameters such as pain, anxiety, and functional limitation that may affect the quality of life were related to unfavorable values in the TMD groups.

Are neck pain, disability, and deep neck flexor performance the same for the different types of temporomandibular disorders?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate neck pain, disability, and deep neck flexor (DNF) performance of individuals with temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

METHODS

Eighty individuals were divided into the following: arthrogenic TMD (n = 40), myogenic TMD (n = 12), and mixed TMD (n = 28). Neck pain intensity, neck disability, and DNF performance were evaluated.

RESULTS

Individuals with arthrogenic TMD reported lower intensity of neck pain when compared to mixed TMD (p = 0.01). Individuals with arthrogenic TMD had less neck disability than individuals with myogenic TMD (p = 0.037) and mixed TMD (p < 0.001). A moderate positive correlation was found between neck pain and neck disability (p < 0.001). No differences were found for DNF performance.

CONCLUSION

Neck pain and disability differs according to subtype of TMD, but performance of the deep neck flexors does not. Neck pain intensity and neck disability were correlated in patients with TMD.

Impact of manual therapy on body posture-3-D analysis with rasterstereography - pilotstudy

INTRODUCTION

The relationship between posture and temporomandibular disease (TMD) is unclear. The aim of our study was to determine the influence of manual therapy (MT) on posture in TMD patients compared with healthy subjects.

MATERIAL/METHOD

After consideration of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 subjects were included. These were divided into two groups: group A comprised 15 healthy subjects and group B 15 patients with present proven TMD disease. Rasterstereographic images were taken at different times. Group A subjects were scanned twice within half a year and group B before initiation as well as after the first MT and after completion of the prescribed MT. The different posture variables were calculated using DIERS Formetric software.

RESULTS

To illustrate the differences between the two groups, 10 different postural variables were examined. Significant differences between the two groups were observed in pelvic tilt, surface rotation, and kyphotic apex. Pelvic tilt: mean = 7.581, p-value = 0.029; surface rotation: mean = 3.098, p = 0.049; and mean kyphotic apex = 11.538 and 11.946, respectively, with p-values of 0.037 and 0.029, respectively.

CONCLUSION

MT leads to a change in posture in TMD patients. This could influence the course of TMD treatment.

The effect of craniocervical flexors endurance training on suprahyoid muscle activation in healthy adults: A randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Cervical posture affects swallowing function through contractile and non-contractile structures. Craniocervical flexor endurance training (CCFET), which focuses on the activation of deep cervical muscles, is used to ensure cervical posture stability.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of CCFET on the suprahyoid muscles (SH), which play an important role in swallowing function.

METHODS

Eighty healthy individuals (52 female and 28 male, mean age 21.77 ± 1.81 years) were recruited and randomly assigned to groups that underwent either deep cervical flexor (DCF) training with a pressure biofeedback unit (CCFET group, n = 41) or no intervention (control group, n = 39). The intervention was applied for 4 weeks (five sessions per week). Static endurance and activation of DCF muscles (Craniocervical Flexion Test, CCFT), tragus-wall distance (TWD) for forward head posture and surface electromyographic (sEMG) activation of suprahyoid muscles were evaluated.

RESULTS

The endurance and activation of the DCF muscles were significantly increased in the CCFET group (p = <.001). In the CCFET group, TWD significantly lower than the control group (p = <.001) Peak SH amplitude and mean SH amplitude were lower in the CCFET group compared to the control group (p = .013, p = .003).

CONCLUSION

The study shows that 4 weeks of CCFET reduced SH muscle activation, allowing the same work to be done with fewer motor units. CCFET can be included in rehabilitation programs as an additional method that has an effect on the muscles involved in swallowing by providing cervical motor control.

The effectiveness of cervical rehabilitation interventions for pain in adults with myogenic temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Little evidence exists for the most effective conservative treatment approach for adults with myogenic temporomandibular disorders (MTMD). We aim to assess the effectiveness of cervical rehabilitation interventions on pain intensity and sensitivity in adults with MTMD compared to comparison intervention such as placebo, sham treatment, education or no intervention.

METHODS

For this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, PEDro databases, forward and backward citations and grey literature studies through PROSPERO, clinical trials and data registries without language or date restrictions between inception and 1 December 2021. We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) based on adult populations with MTMD who had a cervical rehabilitation intervention which was defined as any conservative intervention targeting the anatomical structures of the cervical spine. The primary outcome measures for pain were self-reported pain intensity and pain sensitivity through the pressure pain threshold (PPT) of the masseter and temporalis muscles. Secondary outcome measures of maximal mouth opening (on MMO) were included. Included studies were assessed for bias with the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised trials. Evidence from RCTs was synthesised to determine treatment effect size as differences between standardised mean difference (SMD) for changes in pain intensity, PPT and MMO comparing adults with MTMD who were treated with cervical rehabilitation interventions compared to a control group. This study is registered on Prospero, number CRD 42021289299.

RESULTS

Our general search yielded 2647 studies where seven RCTs met eligibility criteria with low to some concerns in their risk of bias. Pain intensity (five studies, n = 223, SMD -0.98, 95% CI -1.67 to -0.28, I2 = 79%), PPT of the masseter muscle (six studies, n = 395, SMD 0.64, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.86, I2 = 90%) and the temporalis muscles (five studies, n = 295, SMD 0.76, 95% CI 0.07 to 1.45, I2 = 84%) showed large treatment effect estimates favouring cervical rehabilitation interventions compared to no treatment, sham cervical treatment, patient education or non-cervical neuromuscular techniques. Compared to control interventions, one type of cervical rehabilitation intervention, cervical manual therapy alone or in combination with a neck exercise program was associated with statistically significant, large treatment effect estimates on pain intensity (four studies, n = 203, SMD -1.52, 95% CI -2.50 to -0.55).

CONCLUSIONS

This review found that in the short-term, cervical rehabilitation interventions especially upper cervical MT alone or in combination with a neck exercise program are effective in improving multiple pain outcomes in adults with MTMD. However, further research is needed to measure the long-term effects of this type of intervention.

Occurrence of Cervical Spine Pain and Its Intensity in Young People with Temporomandibular Disorders

Background: The main aim of this cross-sectional study was to compare the occurrence and severity of cervical spine pain in young adults diagnosed with TMDs with a healthy control group (without TMDs). Methods: The study was conducted from June to July 2023. Inclusion criteria were age (18-30 years), cervical spine pain (for at least 1 month), and consent to participate in the study. The study was conducted based on RDC/TMD protocol, an original questionnaire, and a physiotherapeutic examination focused on detecting TMDs. The cervical pain level was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Thus, a total of 95 subjects were registered for the trials, 51 people (53.7%) constituted the control group (without TMDs), while 44 (46.3%) people constituted the study group (with TMDs). Results: The mean age of people participating in the study was 22.2 ± 2.2 years in the study group and 22.5 ± 3.1 years in the control group. The largest group was people aged 21-25 (n = 51 people, 53.7%). Patients from the study group more often experienced pain in the stomatognathic system during palpation (both in the muscle, joint, and musculoskeletal groups) and had reduced mobility of the temporomandibular joints in every movement (p < 0.001). People from the study group were also characterized by less mobility of the cervical spine (p < 0.05), apart from extension movement (p > 0.05). The analysis showed that of the 95 people participating in the study, 85.4% reported problems in the cervical spine area (n = 81), of which almost all people in the study group struggled with this problem (n = 43, 97.7%). It was found that cervical spine pain was significantly more common in people with TMDs (p < 0.05, chi2 = 10.118, df = 1, rc = 0.31). The level of pain was significantly higher in people from the study group (p < 0.001, chi2 = 45.765, df = 4, rc = 0.57). Conclusions: Our research has shown that the occurrence of cervical spine pain is more common in the group of young people with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). In young people, this problem is rarely recognized and properly treated.

An investigation of the changes in mechanical properties of the orofacial and neck muscles between patients with myogenous and mixed temporomandibular disorders

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the possible changes in the mechanical properties of the orofacial and neck muscles in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

METHODS

The study included a total of 98 females. Females were divided into three groups as myogenous TMD, mixed TMD, and healthy controls. The frequency (indicator of muscle tone), stiffness, and decrement (related to muscle elasticity) values of the sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, cervical extensor, and masseter muscles were measured using a portable myotonometer.

RESULTS

The frequency, stiffness, and decrement values of the masseter muscle were higher in the mixed and myogenous TMD groups than those of the control group (p < 0.017). The mixed TMD group had higher frequency and stiffness values in the upper trapezius muscle compared with the control group (p < 0.017).

DISCUSSION

The results suggest that the mechanical properties of the oral and neck muscles may be affected in patients with TMD.

An investigation of biomechanics, muscle performance, and disability level of craniocervical region of individuals with temporomandibular disorder

OBJECTIVE

To investigate biomechanics, muscle performance, and disability of the craniocervical region in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients and compare them with controls.

METHODS

Craniocervical posture was evaluated using lateral photography and radiography. Range of motion, muscle performance, disability, and TMD severity were assessed using an inclinometer, Functional Strength Testing of Cervical Spine, Neck Disability Index, and Fonseca Anamnestic Index, respectively.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, the TMD group demonstrated higher cervical flexion angle (p=0.005) and neck disability (p<0.001) as well as lower cervical extension (p=0.040), right cervical rotation (p=0.005), left cervical rotation (p<0.001), and tragus-C7-horizontal (p=0.048) angles, and reduced muscle performances (p≤0.001). Most patients had higher than normal craniocervical angle (p<0.001). Muscle performance in each cervical motion (p<0.005) and disability (p<0.001) were associated with TMD severity in the TMD group.

CONCLUSION

Biomechanics, muscle performance, and disability of craniocervical region were altered in the TMD group.

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching exercises for treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction in patients with forward head posture: A double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching exercises have been widely advocated for the management of patients with different musculoskeletal conditions. However, its effect on the treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) in patients with forward head posture (FHP) has not been fully investigated.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of PNF stretching exercises on the treatment of TMD in patients with FHP.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized, double-blinded clinical trial. Twenty-four patients with TMD and FHP aged from 18-40 years were randomly assigned to PNF or control group. The PNF group composed of 12 patients received PNF stretching exercises of masticatory muscles in addition to routine physical therapy treatment (FHP correction exercises and ultrasound for the temporomandibular joint); the control group composed of 12 patients received routine physical therapy treatment only. Interventions were conducted twice a week for six weeks. Craniovertebral angle, pain threshold, pain intensity, temporomandibular joint ROM, and temporomandibular joint function were assessed for all participants before and after the intervention. The outcomes were analyzed using Two-way mixed MANOVA. For further multiple comparisons, post-hoc tests with the Bonferroni correction were performed.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between both groups pre-treatment (p> 0.05). Comparison between groups post-treatment revealed statistically significant differences in all outcome measures (p< 0.05) in favor of the PNF group.

CONCLUSION

Adding PNF stretching exercises of masticatory muscles to routine physical therapy programs is an effective method for management of TMD in patients with FHP more than routine physical therapy programs alone.

Cervical Range of Motion Analysis Performed with an Accelerometer: A Study of Intersession Reliability for Dental Practice

During the clinical examination of subjects with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), the dentist sometimes must evaluate the cervical spine, due to the anatomical and functional connections between the cervical portion of the spine and the stomatognathic apparatus. The accelerometer is a device that evaluates the Range of Motion (ROM) of the main movements of the head on the neck. To date, only a few studies have investigated the repeatability of the use of the accelerometer in the assessment of cervical ROM. Therefore, the present longitudinal observational study analyzed the repeatability of acquired cervical movements on a sample of volunteer subjects who underwent accelerometer testing. A sample of 32 subjects was tested twice within 14 days to assess cervical ROM using a standardized protocol based on a review of existing literature. The results show that the examination is reliable for all the positions of the jaw, except for the parameters regarding the asymmetries of rotation and bending. In conclusion, the accelerometer can be considered a reliable tool for evaluating the active cervical ROM. However, further studies will be necessary to make better evaluations.

Temporomandibular disorder prevalence and its association with oral parafunctions, neck pain, and neck function in healthcare students: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the temporomandibular disorder (TMD) prevalence in female students and to assess its association with oral parafunctions, neck pain, and function.

METHODS

One hundred forty-four participants were included. The severity of TMD was assessed with Fonseca's Anamnestic Index (FAI). The oral parafunctions were self-reported with the Oral Behaviors Checklist (OBC). Neck pain and neck function were recorded with the Core Outcome Measure Index (COMI). The Spearman correlation analysis was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Seventy participants (48.6%) had mild TMD. All participants had a positive OBC score, which indicated an oral parafunction. A moderate correlation between TMD and oral parafunctions (p < 0.001) was detected.

DISCUSSION

TMD is common in female healthcare students, and its presence is associated with oral parafunctions, neck pain, and function. It is recommended to evaluate oral health habits and neck pain and function in females with TMD.

Pain, deep neck flexors performance, disability, and head posture in individuals with temporomandibular disorder with and without otological complaints

BACKGROUND

Otological complaints (OC) are highly prevalent in subjects with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and so is the risk of neck dysfunctions.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate pain, deep neck flexor (DNF) performance, disability, and head and neck posture of individuals with TMD with and without OC.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 57 individuals were divided into a group with TMD and OC (n= 31) and a group with TMD without OC (n= 26). Self-reported pain intensity, masticatory and neck muscles pressure pain thresholds, DNF performance, neck disability, and head and neck posture were evaluated. Data were compared between groups using the independent t test and Mann-Whitney test with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Effect sizes were evaluated using Cohen's index.

RESULTS

The TMD with OC group presented less muscle activation [26 (24-28) vs. 24 (24-26) mmHg; p< 0.05], less endurance [105 (46-140) vs. 44 (28-78) points; p< 0.05], and greater neck disability (8.15 ± 5.89 vs. 13.32 ± 6.36 points; p< 0.05). No significant difference was observed in self-reported pain, head and neck posture, or pressure pain thresholds.

CONCLUSION

Individuals with TMD with OC presented decreased DNF performance and increased neck disability compared to individuals with TMD without OC.

Neck Strength Evaluated With Fixed and Portable Dynamometers in Asymptomatic Individuals: Correlation, Concurrent Validity, and Agreement

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the correlation, concurrent validity, and agreement between the isometric cervical force measurements obtained with fixed and portable dynamometers in asymptomatic individuals.

METHODS

Fifty asymptomatic individuals performed 3 maximal isometric contractions for flexion, extension, and lateral flexion of the cervical spine using fixed and portable dynamometers. The correlation and concurrent validity for the measurements of the portable and fixed dynamometers were analyzed using Spearman's correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), respectively. The agreement between the force values of the portable and fixed dynamometers was measured using the Bland-Altman method.

RESULTS

Isometric cervical force measurements obtained with the fixed dynamometer and portable dynamometer showed a moderately to highly significant correlation for flexion (r_s = 0.74), extension (r_s = 0.82), right lateral flexion (r_s = 0.74), and left lateral flexion (r_s = 0.68). The concurrent validity was moderate to good for all measurements (ICC_2,3 = 0.67-0.80). The fixed and portable dynamometers did not agree, with a significant mean difference between the methods of 2.8 kgf (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.1-3.4 kgf) for cervical flexion, 5.3 kgf (95% CI, 4.2-6.4 kgf) for extension, and 9.1 kgf (95% CI, 0.4-2.1 kgf) for left lateral flexion. The limits of agreement were broad for all movements, with errors that varied between 61% and 77% of the mean force obtained with the fixed dynamometer.

CONCLUSION

The neck strength measurements obtained with the fixed and portable dynamometers demonstrated high to moderate correlation and had moderate to good comparability for asymptomatic participants. However, they did not agree in that the 2 methods did not provide equivalent measurements, and, therefore, based on these findings, the same equipment should always be used when reassessing an individual.

Strength of scapular elevation in women with TMD and asymptomatic women

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is recognized for its high prevalence, presenting characteristic signs and symptoms. Cervical spine pain is present in 70% of diagnosed TMD cases. Aim: To verify if women with TMD present changes in isometric muscle strength in the scapula elevation. Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional study. Thirty-five women, aged 22.89±2.04 years, were divided into the TMD group (TMDG), diagnosed with TMD according to the DC/TMD, and control group (CG), with asymptomatic individuals. The volunteers accessed a online link by the smartphone in order to answer questions on personal data, the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Masticatory preference. In all participants, evaluation of the force of the scapula elevation muscles was performed, using a load cell model MM-100 (Kratos® SP, Brazil). Data were analyzed descriptively using the maximum, mean, and standard deviation and a two-way ANCOVA test was applied for all variables. A significance level of 5% was considered. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the TMDG and CG for the maximal and mean muscle strength of scapular elevation. There were statistically significant differences in FAI (p <0.001*) between the CG and the TMDG. Conclusion: Based on the results, it was not possible to confirm the hypothesis that women diagnosed with TMD present lower isometric strength during scapular elevation (right/left).  

Alterations in kinematics of temporomandibular joint associated with chronic neck pain

BACKGROUND

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is an umbrella term for pain and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its associated structures. Patients with TMD show changes in TMJ kinematics and masticatory muscle activation. TMD is commonly comorbid with non-specific chronic neck pain (NCNP), which may be one of the risk factors for TMD.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate whether patients with NCNP have altered TMJ kinematics and masticatory muscle activity.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional exploratory study including 19 healthy participants and 20 patients with NCNP but without TMD symptoms. TMJ kinematics was measured during mouth opening and closing, jaw protrusion and jaw lateral deviation. Surface electromyography was used to record the muscle activity of the anterior temporalis, masseter, sternocleidomastoid and upper trapezius while clenching. Furthermore, cervical posture, cervical range of motion (ROM) and pressure-pain threshold of the neck and masticatory muscles were measured.

RESULTS

Compared with the healthy group, the NCNP group showed significantly reduced upper cervical rotation ROM (p = .041) and increased condylar path length (p = .02), condylar translation (opening p = .034, closing p = .011) and mechanical pain sensitivity of the upper trapezius (p = .018). Increased condylar translation was significantly correlated with reduced upper cervical mobility and poor cervical posture (r = -0.322 to -0.397; p = .012-.046).

CONCLUSION

Increased condylar translation and path length in patients with NCNP may indicate poor control of TMJ articular movement, which may result from neck pain or may be a compensation for limited neck mobility. Evaluation of excessive TMJ translation may be considered in patients with NCNP.

Accuracy of Physical Assessment in Nursing for Cervical Spine Joint Pain and Stiffness: Pilot Study Protocol

BACKGROUND

Cervical spine dysfunction is a condition with high personal, social, and economic impact worldwide. Although its etiology is described as multifactorial, there is a need for further clarification. The literature has demonstrated the anatomical, physiological, and pathophysiological relationship among the cervical spine, temporomandibular joint, and visceral system. To guide and contribute to the accuracy of the physical assessment performed by nurses, we will study the influence of the stomatognathic system and viscerosomatic reflexes on pain and joint stiffness of the cervical spine.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to describe a pilot study protocol to investigate the influence of the stomatognathic system and viscerosomatic reflexes on cervical structures.

METHODS

A pilot study with a quasi-experimental design was conducted with 50 volunteers from the university population of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa-Porto. We studied the influence of changes in the usual intercuspation, the occlusal deprogramming, and the pressure stimulus of the reflex skin region of the ilium/colon in the cervical spine. This study was divided into 2 phases. In the first phase, we performed the kinematic and pain analysis during the passive mobilization of the upper cervical spine using the Motion Capture System at the Motion Capture Laboratory at UCP-Porto and the Visual Analog Scale. In the second phase, we evaluated the pain threshold on palpation of the erector neck muscles and the structures of the stomatognathic system using algometry. The influence of viscerosomatic reflexes on the structures of the stomatognathic system was also analyzed.

RESULTS

Selection and preparation of the data collection site, acquisition of materials, constitution of the sample group and data collection were completed. The analysis of the results is being carried out.

CONCLUSIONS

The data from this study will allow for the detection of the possible influence of the stomatognathic system and viscerosomatic reflexes on pain and range of motion of the upper cervical spine, providing data for future randomized studies. We have also identified potential limitations of this study.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

RR1-10.2196/31878.

Impact of Cervical Spine Rehabilitation on Temporomandibular Joint Functioning in Patients with Idiopathic Neck Pain

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a 3-week rehabilitation programme focusing only on the cervical region, pain intensity, range of motion in the cervical spine, head posture, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) functioning in subjects with idiopathic neck pain who did not report TMJ pain.

Design

A parallel group trial with follow-up.

Methods

The study included 60 participants divided into 2 groups: experimental: n = 25, 27-57 years old, experiencing idiopathic neck pain and who underwent a 3-week rehabilitation programme, and the control, n = 35, 27-47 years, who were cervical pain-free. At baseline and after 3 weeks of treatment in the experimental group and with a 3-week time interval in the control group, pain intensity, head posture in the sagittal plane, range of motion in the cervical spine, and TMJ functioning were evaluated.

Results

After 3 weeks of rehabilitation, there was a significant decrease in pain intensity, improved range of motion of the cervical spine and head posture, and improved clinical condition of TMJ in participants with idiopathic neck pain who did not report TMJ pain.

Conclusion

The study suggested that idiopathic neck pain is associated with limited range of motion in the cervical spine, incorrect head posture, and TMJ dysfunction. Our data suggests that therapy focusing only on the cervical region may improve the clinical condition of the TMJ in subjects with idiopathic neck pain who do not report TMJ pain. These observations could be helpful in physiotherapeutic treatment of neck and craniofacial area dysfunctions. This trial is registered with ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN14511735.

Physical therapist guided active intervention of chronic temporomandibular disorder presenting as ear pain: A case report

This case report describes the successful physical therapy management of a 40-year-old female who presented with left ear pain referred from the temporomandibular joint. Diagnosis was primarily based on clinical examination findings and ruling out of red flags. Guidance was given on active self-care approaches consisting of pain neuroscience education designed with individualized pain curriculum, exercise therapy, manual therapy, and breathing exercises for a period of  sixweeks. Clinically meaningful improvements were obtained in the outcome measures of Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS), and Global Rating of Change (GROC) scale and progress in Pain-Self Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) and Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) scores. Positive changes were achieved with functional activities (chewing, eating, yawing, brushing teeth and physical intimacy), and the patient was pain-free on discharge, which was maintained at a six-month follow-up.

Association of cervical spine signs and symptoms with temporomandibular disorders in adults: a systematic review protocol

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this systematic review is to assess the evidence of association of cervical spine signs and symptoms with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). This will help to lend credence to mechanisms supporting the association in order to improve care strategies for this condition.

INTRODUCTION

The association of cervical spine impairments (in relation to neck posture, cervical spine mobility, muscle tenderness, muscle activity, and neck disability) with TMD has been widely discussed in the literature. Clarification of this relationship is important for health professionals to better assess and treat TMD.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Eligible studies will include participants aged 18 years and over, with a diagnosis of TMD from the Research and Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders or a revised version. Exclusion criteria will be participants with previous temporomandibular joint surgery, history of trauma or fracture in the temporomandibular joint or the craniomandibular system; serious comorbid conditions such as cancer, rheumatic disease, and neurological problems; primary cervical spine disorders such as disc herniation or spinal degenerative changes; or systemic disease such as ankylosing spondylitis.

METHODS

The search for articles will be conducted in the databases PubMed, PEDro, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Embase, without language or time restrictions. Two independent reviewers will review the title, abstract, and full texts of identified studies; select studies against the inclusion criteria; assess the methodological quality of eligible studies using critical appraisal tools; and perform data extraction. Relevant quantitative data will be pooled with statistical meta-analysis, when possible.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD42019123698.

The influence of cervical spine rehabilitation on bioelectrical activity (sEMG) of cervical and masticatory system muscles

Background

Coexistence of temporomandibular joint discomfort along with cervical spine disorders is quite common, and is associated with many limitations and adverse symptoms for the patient. Both diagnostics and treatment of these ailments are difficult, and in many cases, the effects of therapy are not satisfactory. This study assessed the impact of a 3-week neck-only rehabilitation programme without direct intervention in the craniofacial area on the bioelectric activity of both the cervical spine and muscles in the craniofacial area among patients with idiopathic neck pain who do not report TMJ pain.

Design

A parallel group trial with follow-up; Setting: Rehabilitation Clinic.

Methods

Twenty five patients experiencing idiopathic neck pain underwent the 3-week rehabilitation programme. Thirty five age-matched subjects with no cervical spine and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunctions were control group. At baseline and after 3 weeks the cervical and craniofacial area muscles’ bioelectrical activity (sEMG) was evaluated.

Results

In the experimental group during cervical flexion, a significant decrease of sEMG amplitude was noted in the right (mean 25.1 μV; 95% CI: 21.5–28.6 vs mean 16.8 μV; 95% CI: 13.8–19.7) and left (mean 25.9 μV; 95% CI: 21.7–30.0 vs mean 17.2 μV; 95% CI: 13.6–20.7) Sternocleidomastoid as well as a significant increase in sEMG amplitude of the right (mean 11.1 μV; 95% CI: 7.9–14.2 vs mean 15.7 μV; 95% CI: 12.1–19.2) and left (mean 15.3 μV; 95% CI: 11.9–18.6 vs mean 20.2 μV; 95% CI: 15.7–24.2) Upper Trapezius muscles. In the experimental group, after therapy right and left Sternocleidomastoid, Temporalis Anterior and Masseter muscles presented lower fatigue levels.

Conclusions

Three weeks of rehabilitation without any therapeutic intervention in temporomandibular joint significantly decreased the bioelectrical activity of the neck and craniofacial muscles while improving the muscle pattern of coactivation in participants with idiopathic neck pain who do not report temporomandibular joint pain. These observations could be helpful in the physiotherapeutic treatment of neck and craniofacial area dysfunctions.

Trial registration

ID ISRCTN14511735—retrospectively registered.

The association between specific temporomandibular disorders and cervicogenic headache

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Upper neck signs, symptoms and hypomobility have been shown to present with a higher prevalence in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). However, there is currently no evidence of an association between specific TMDs and cervicogenic headache (CGH). Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the odds ratio and the relative risk of CGH in patients with specific TMDs.

METHOD

116 participants, including 74 patients with TMD (pain-related/intraarticular/mixed TMD) and 42 healthy controls took part in this study. The TMD diagnosis was made by senior faculty members of the Dental School according to the Diagnostic Criteria for TMD, while the cervical diagnosis was made by a qualified senior physical therapist. The analysis comprised the evaluation of the odds ratio of CGH among patients with TMD and the relative risk (RR) for CGH during 14-24 months of follow-up.

RESULTS

Significantly higher odds ratios of cervicogenic headache were found among pain-related and mixed TMD (12.17 and 10.76, respectively) versus healthy controls. During the 14-24 months of follow-up, there was no significant difference of relative risk for CGH among patients with TMD versus healthy controls.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

The results support a clear clinical association between painful TMD (pain-related and mixed TMD) and cervicogenic headache.

Cervical musculoskeletal disorders in patients with temporomandibular dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To verify which are the neck musculoskeletal disorders presented by individuals with temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

METHODS

It is a systematic review and meta-analysis that were included cohort, case-control and cross-section studies that analyzed the presence of cervical musculoskeletal disorders in individuals with TMD, with age between 18 and 55 years. The searches were carried out in the databases: Medline/PubMed, Cinahl, Web of Science, Cochrane, Lilacs and Scopus; and there was no linguistic or temporal restriction. The evidence quality was evaluated by GRADE system and methodological quality by Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) and the risk of publication bias assessed by the funnel plot graph. The data was quantitatively analyzed by the meta-analysis using the mean differences (MD) as an effect measure.

RESULTS

There were included 21 manuscripts in the synthesis, of theses 16 were evaluated by meta-analysis with methodological quality ranging from poor to excellent by NOS scale. Individuals with TMD present lower endurance of extensor neck muscle compared to TMD-free (MD = -194.66s [95%CI: 212.44;-176.88]), with moderate to excellent quality. As, upper neck hymobility on the right (MD = -8.59° (95%CI: -10.43°;-6.75°) and left (MD = -7.99° (95%CI: -9.63°;-6.35°), and in all global neck movements. Also, individuals with TMD presented worse self-reported neck disability (MD = 7.91 (95%CI: 7.39; 8.43)) compared to free-TMD.

CONCLUSION

There is moderate and strong evidence that patients with TMD present lower endurance of extensor neck muscle, global and upper neck hypomobility, worse self-reported neck disability, however, their cranio-cervical posture is similar to individuals without TMD, based on a moderate to excellent methodological quality.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD42018103918.

Radiological indicators to predict the application of assistant intubation techniques for patients undergoing cervical surgery

Background

We aimed to distinguish the preoperative radiological indicators to predict the application of assistant techniques during intubation for patients undergoing selective cervical surgery.

Methods

A total of 104 patients were enrolled in this study. According to whether intubation was successfully accomplished by simple Macintosh laryngoscopy, patients were divided into Macintosh laryngoscopy group (n = 78) and Assistant technique group (n = 26). We measured patients’ radiographical data via their preoperative X-ray and MRI images, and compared the differences between two groups. Binary logistic regression model was applied to distinguish the meaningful predictors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) were used to describe the discrimination ability of indicators. The highest Youden’s index corresponded to an optimal cut-off value.

Results

Ten variables exhibited significant statistical differences between two groups (P <  0.05). Based on logistic regression model, four further showed correlation with the application of assistant techniques, namely, perpendicular distance from hard palate to tip of upper incisor (X2), atlanto-occipital gap (X9), angle between a line passing through posterior-superior point of hard palate and the lowest point of the occipital bone and a line passing through the anterior-inferior point and the posterior-inferior point of the second cervical vertebral body (Angle E), and distance from skin to hyoid bone (MRI 7). Angle E owned the largest AUC (0.929), and its optimal cut-off value was 19.9° (sensitivity = 88.5%, specificity = 91.0%). the optimal cut-off value, sensitivity and specificity of other three variables were X2 (30.1 mm, 76.9, 76.9%), MRI7 (16.3 mm, 69.2, 87.2%), and X9 (7.3 mm, 73.1, 56.4%).

Conclusions

Four radiological variables possessed potential ability to predict the application of assistant intubation techniques. Anaesthesiologists are recommended to apply assistant techniques more positively once encountering the mentioned cut-off values.

Craniocervical and Cervical Spine Features of Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

To assess neck disability with respect to jaw disability, craniocervical position, cervical alignment, and sensorimotor impairments in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD), a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies trials were conducted. The meta-analysis showed statistically significant differences in the association between neck disability and jaw disability (standardized mean difference (SMD), 0.72 (0.56-0.82)). However, results showed no significant differences for cervical alignment (SMD, 0.02 (-0.31-0.36)) or for the craniocervical position (SMD, -0.09 (-0.27-0.09)). There was moderate evidence for lower pressure pain thresholds (PPT) and for limited cervical range of motion (ROM). There was limited evidence for equal values for maximal strength between the patients with TMD and controls. There was also limited evidence for reduced cervical endurance and conflicting evidence for abnormal electromyographic (EMG) activity and motor control in TMD patients. Results showed a clinically relevant association between cervical and mandibular disability in patients with TMD. Regarding sensory-motor alterations, the most conclusive findings were observed in the reduction of PPT and cervical ROM, with moderate evidence of their presence in the patients with TMD. Lastly, the evidence on impaired motor control and cervical EMG activity in patients with TMD was conflicting.

Relationship between specific temporomandibular disorders and impaired upper neck performance

Upper neck impairments are more prevalent in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) but the differences between specific types of TMDs are unclear. This study evaluated the distribution of such impairments among different forms of TMD. In total, 116 participants (86 women and 30 men, age range 21-75 yr) were investigated. Forty-two individuals had no TMDs and were assigned to the control group. The remaining 74 patients were assigned to one of three groups based on the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) findings: pain-related (n = 37); intra-articular (n = 17); or mixed (combined pain-related and intra-articular) (n = 20). Analyses of impairments included between-group comparisons of key parameters of upper neck performance (active/passive mobility and muscular capabilities) and pain (subjective neck disability and pain sensitivity). Patients in the pain-related and mixed TMD groups were found to have decreased upper neck mobility in the cervical flexion-rotation test compared with patients in intra-articular and control groups, as well as poorer capabilities of the deep neck flexor muscles in the cranio-cervical flexion test compared to the control group. It was concluded that patients with pain-related TMD diagnoses are more likely to experience significant upper-neck hypomobility and poor muscular capabilities than patients with intra-articular diagnoses of TMD.