Plantar Pressure Variations Induced by Experimental Malocclusion-A Pilot Case Series Study.

BACKGROUND

All body systems involved in ensuring a healthy posture (musculoskeletal system, oculomotor, oto-vestibular and occluso-cranial-mandibular) are essential in maintaining postural balance.

RESEARCH QUESTION: Does experimental malocclusion in subjects in static position determine variations in plantar pressure?

METHODS

Overall, 31 subjects were included in the study. The plantar pressure was evaluated in five different points: lateral and medial heel, midfoot, 1st and 5th metatarsal area. Using a specially designed splint, an artificial malocclusion was induced on the right hemimandibular arch. The pressure was measured at 0 (T0), 15 (T1) and 30 min (T2) after splint application.

RESULTS

The right external plantar sensors recorded statistically significant differences in pressure values after 15 min of splint wear (5th metatarsal area, p = 0.05; midfoot, p = 0.04). Important pressure values were also recorded by the left internal plantar sensors (1st metatarsal, p = 0.01; medial heel, p = 0.006), after 30 min of splint wear.

CONCLUSIONS

Asymmetrical experimental malocclusion produces early changes in plantar pressure, a proof of compensatory mechanisms induced by secondary postural imbalance.