The interactions between posture and the function or dysfunction of the craniomandibular system have been well-documented in scientific research studies and case studies.

For clinicians, who engage in functional diagnostics and treatment procedures, being aware of these correlations often is a prerequisite for them to understand the etiology and pathogenesis of craniomandibular dysfunction or disorder (CMD).

Observing these correlations also helps prosthodontists avoid problems related to the occlusal design and integration of dental restorations. This is important insofar, asa majority of the lawsuits on record following dental treatment concern reconstructions of the jaw relation occlusal surfaces.

This article therefore discusses the basic mechanisms of interaction between the postural interferences and the function of the spine and the jaw relation. The correlations have been explained in such a way that they can be easily comprehended by clinicians for whom judging someone’s body posture is not part of their daily routine. This article focuses on the postural failure loading on the sagittal, frontal and transverse planes as well as on dysfunctions of the cervical spine and other spine segments, particularly in the region of the sacroiliac joint, and their reciprocal effects with the craniomandibular system.

Click here to read the full article

 

H. W. Danner, H. A. Jakstat, M. O. Ahlers

This article originally appeared in Journal of Craniomanibular Function