Page 80 - The Science of Posture Analysis: Evidence-Based Approaches for Health Professionals

TM D Considerations

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a condition that is characterized by pain

and dysfunction in the jaw and muscles surrounding it. It affects millions of individuals
worldwide and can have a signi cant impact on their quality of life. While the cause of
TMD is not fully understood, there is evidence to suggest that poor posture may play a
role in its development.

Posture refers to the alignment of the body’s skeletal system and the balance of
muscles needed to support it. Poor posture can lead to muscular imbalances, which
can cause tension and pain in various parts of the body, including the jaw. When the

body is in a position that is not properly aligned, it can lead to strain on the
temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can cause TMD.

Studies have found that individuals with TMD often have a forward head posture,

which is characterized by the head being positioned forward relative to the shoulders.
This posture puts strain on the muscles of the neck and shoulders and can lead to
tension in the jaw muscles. One study found that individuals with TMD had a greater

incidence of forward head posture compared to those without the disorder (Kavuncu et
al., 2007).

In addition, individuals with TMD have been found to have alterations in their cervical
spine alignment, which may contribute to the development of the disorder (Silveira et

al., 2016). The cervical spine, which consists of seven vertebrae, is located in the neck
region. Misalignments or subluxations in the cervical spine can lead to nerve irritation,
muscle tension, and pain, all of which can contribute to TMD symptoms.

Improving posture can be an effective way to manage TMD symptoms. One study
found that individuals who participated in a posture correction program experienced
signi cantly reduced TMD pain and disability compared to those who did not receive

posture correction treatment (Gigon et al., 2013). Additionally, chiropractic care, which
involves the manipulation of the spine to improve alignment, has been found to be
effective in reducing TMD symptoms (Pettet et al., 2014).

TMD Considerations
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