Bioelectrical Activity of Masticatory Muscles and Postural Stability Across TMD Subtypes.

Background

Existing evidence suggests an association between temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and alterations in body posture and balance; however, the mechanism underlying this relationship remains unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the associations between specific TMD subtypes, indices of bioelectrical activity of the masticatory muscles, and parameters of body posture and balance.

Methods

The study followed a case-control study design. A total of 81 participants were enrolled, including 33 controls and 48 individuals with TMD, classified into myofascial (n = 14), articular (n = 17), and mixed (n = 17) subtypes. Diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders was carried out by prosthodontic specialists using the Polish adaptation of the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. Masticatory muscle bioelectrical activity was assessed by surface electromyography. For statistical analysis, the Asymmetry Index and Functional Clenching Activity Indices were used. Static balance was evaluated with a pedobarographic platform. The sway area, velocity, and length of the Center of Pressure, as well as the foot contact area, were recorded and automatically calculated by the system. Measurements were performed under different mandibular conditions, with both eyes open and eyes closed. Correlation analyses were performed using Spearman Rank Order Correlation. Pearson's Chi-squared test was used for the analysis of categorical variables.

Results

Weak to moderate negative correlations were primarily observed, indicating that higher indices of masticatory muscle bioelectrical activity were associated with better postural balance, with distinct correlation patterns identified across different TMD subtypes.

Conclusions

This exploratory study identified multiple correlations between masticatory muscle activity and postural or balance parameters, suggesting possible subtype-specific patterns in TMDs. However, the evidence remains preliminary and should be interpreted with caution, warranting further confirmatory and longitudinal research.