Immediate effects of mandibular mobilization on static balance in individuals with temporomandibular disorder: A pilot study
Eric Edmur Camargo Arruda, Ana Paula Amaral, Fabiano Politti, Yasmin El Hage, Cid Andre Fidelis de Paula Gomes, Tabajara de Oliveira Gonzalez, Cesar Ferreira Amorim, Daniela Aparecida Biasotto-Gonzalez
Med Sci Tech 2012; 53(4): RA165-169
ID: 883652
Available online:
Published: 2012-12-17
Background: The aim of the present study was to investigate the immediate effect of mandibular mobilization on static balance and mandibular range of motion in individuals with temporomandibular disorders.
Material/Methods: The individuals were diagnosed based on the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. Evaluations were performed before and immediately following mandibular mobilization. A digital caliper was used to determine the mandibular range of motion and a force plate was used to record bodily oscillations in the anteroposterior and mediolateral directions under 2 visual conditions (eyes open and eyes closed).
Results: A significant difference was found in anteroposterior velocity between the pre-mobilization and post-mobilization periods (p=0.02). Despite this statistically significant difference, it was not possible to demonstrate that mobilization exerted an influence over postural control in the immediate post-intervention period. However, statistically significant differences were found between evaluations regarding all mandibular ranges of motion analyzed (p<0.05).
Conclusions: Mandibular mobilization improves the range of motion of this anatomic structure and does not affect the COP.
Keywords: Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome, Physical Therapy Modalities, postural balance