Association between Temporomandibular Disorders with Head and Neck Posture: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Purpose: To systematically review the association of head and neck posture features with TMD. A systematic searchfor observational studies evaluating head and neck postural control features in patients with TMD diagnosis according to DC/TMD or RDC/ TMD criteria was conducted. Methods: Data were extracted by two reviewers according to the STARLITE guidelines. The methodological quality was assessed with a specific 8-items questionnaire. Results: Nine studies were included with a methodological quality ranging from 4 to 7 (mean: 5.3; SD: 1.0), four using photogrammetry and six using radiography assessments. Craniocervical angle, distance between vertebral segments, hyoid bone position, high cervical angle, low cervical angle,the anterior translation angle, lordosis angle, and craniocervical mobility index were assessed. Craniocervical angle, hyoid position, and C0-C1-C2 distance are not associated with TMD. More high-quality with proper TMD diagnostic criteria, sample size and valid/reliable procedures are needed to confirm the association between TMD with disc displacement, ANB angle, and cervical lordosis.