Aim: This study aims to compare the static endurance of cervical region muscles, pressure pain thresholds of selected muscles of the stomatognathic system, and postural characteristics in young adults with and without temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). Method: A total of 60 university students aged between 18 and 25 years will be included in the study. Participants will be divided into two groups: individuals with temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD group, n=30) and healthy controls (control group, n=30). The static endurance of cervical flexor and extensor muscles will be assessed using standardized endurance tests. Pressure pain thresholds of the temporalis, masseter, sternocleidomastoid, and upper trapezius muscles will be measured using a pressure algometer. Postural characteristics will be evaluated using the New York Posture Analysis (NYPA).
The socio-demographic data of the individuals, including age, height, weight, etc., were recorded. The Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) was used to identify the presence of TMD, and individuals with a score above 15 (FAI≥15) were determined to have TMD. Additionally, individuals' muscular endurance was assessed using a standard endurance test, pressure pain thresholds were measured with an algometer, and posture was evaluated using the New York Posture Analysis.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
60
Igdir University
Iğdır, Turkey (Türkiye)
Cervical Muscle Endurance Assessment
Static endurance of cervical flexor and extensor muscles was measured in seconds. Extensors: participants lay prone, lifted the head slightly, and held a 2-kg weight as long as possible. Flexors: participants lay supine, performed slight craniocervical flexion, and maintained the position. Test ended with pain, loss of position, or sufficient endurance. Intra-observer reliability: flexors 0.71-0.93, extensors 0.73-0.85.
Time frame: 2 week
Pressure Pain Threshold Assesment
Pressure pain threshold (PPT) was measured using a Baseline Push-Pull Force Gauge® algometer with a 1 cm rubber tip. After familiarization, pressure was applied perpendicularly to the most sensitive points of the upper trapezius, masseter, temporalis, and SCM muscles until participants reported pain. Each site was tested three times with ≥20 s intervals, and the average value was recorded as the PPT.
Time frame: 2 week
Posture Assessment
Posture was assessed using the NYPA, evaluating alignment of 13 body regions including head, neck, shoulders, back, waist, hips, and ankles. Each region was scored 1 (severe impairment), 3 (moderate), or 5 (good), giving a total score of 13-65. Scores were categorized as very good (≥45), good (40-44), moderate (30-39), poor (20-29), or bad (≤19). Reliability coefficients range from 0.93 to 0.98.
Time frame: 2 week
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.