Temporomandibular joint dysfunction in adults: Its relation to pain, general joint hypermobility, and head posture

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The first objective is the questioning of the presence of general joint hypermobility (GJH) and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) in adults and examining the existence of the relationship between GJH and TMJD. The secondary purpose of this study questions whether there is a relationship between the forward head posture and GJH. MATERIALS AND METHODS: GJH assessments were carried out with the Beighton Hypermobility Score. Participants were assessed by a plumb line for postural assessment. During mouth opening, the examination of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) was evaluated based on if the mandible shows deflection or deviation. Pain assessment in TMJ was evaluated through three different pain areas, during rest and chewing activity and at night with the visual analog scale. Masseter muscle pressure sensitivity was recorded by measuring it with a dolorimeter. RESULTS: There was a positive correlation between hypermobility status and temporalis muscle pain at night (r: 0.218, P < 0.005). It was observed that those who are not hypermobile had more pain caused by chewing activity in masseter muscle than hypermobile participants (P < 0.005). CONCLUSION: In the presence of GJH, in order to maintain rehabilitation in the most effective way and to anticipate the secondary problems that may occur, the TMJ should be thoroughly examined for pain, sensitivity, and functionality.