Stabilographical and electromyographical assessments in TMD patients

Aim: The purpose of this investigation was to show how the stabilograph, the electromyograph and the kinesiograph help to diagnose and treat postural problems, masticatory muscle pains and temporomandibular joint disorders. Materials and Methods: A group of 52 patients with malocclusions and craniomandibular disorders symptomatic at the time of examination was compared to 40 previously studied healthy subjects. TMD is a collective term embracing a number of clinical problems that involve the masticatory musculature and the temporomandibular joints. All TMD patients and controls were evaluated using stabilograph, electromyograph and kinesiograph. Results: TMD patients have distinctly different patterns of muscle activity than asymptomatic subjects. Besides restrictions, deviations, limitations in jaw movement are important diagnostic criteria. Discussion: Successful treatment reduces the irregularity and severity of muscle dysfunction and improves the mandibular movements and organismic posture. So comparison of post-treatment results with pre-treatment situations documents treatment efficacy and effectiveness. Conclusions: The complex etiology of TMD requires an interdisciplinary approach for successful diagnosis, treatment and maintenance. These instrumentations (EMG-CMS and stabilograph) are extremely valuable for initial patient evaluations, as well as for monitoring treatment results.