Neuromuscular changes and temporomandibular disorders in Italian Navy Scuba Divers

The aim is to determine the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders and the neuromuscular system variations in scuba divers of the Italian Navy and to identify the risk factors for the development of TMD signs and symptoms before and after diving. 20 males individuals participated in the research aged 30 to 42 years. Each diver answered a questionnaire and undergone to neuromuscular tests, muscular and postural exams before and after diving, and to CBCT. The prevalence of TMD symptoms after diving was about 93% versus a 32% before diving, the neuromuscular answers after diving (T3) were highly different from rest situation before immersion (T0): T0-T3 p=0,0001 (p<0,001); also postural aspects were different after diving (p<0.01). Scuba divers exhibiting TMD-related symptoms have met the greatest risk of developing TMJ dysfunction and neuromuscular changes during and after the dive. But also in asymptomatic divers, before the dive, TMD is a common problem after it.