Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Cervical dysfunctions are highly prevalent in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether sagittal head and neck posture, craniofacial morphology, neck anthropometry, class of occlusion, bite force, and deep neck flexor muscles strength could predict the occurrence of neck pain among patients with TMD. Methods: Sixty female patients with TMD were divided into two groups of equal number. Group I: patients with TMD and neck pain. Group II: Patients with TMD and no neck pain. The sagittal head and neck posture, craniofacial morphology, and class of occlusion were measured on lateral cephalometric image. Neck anthropometry was measured by caliper. Bite force was measured by load sensor. Deep neck flexor strength was measured by cranio-cervical flexion test using pressure biofeedback unit. These parameters were compared between both groups. Results: there was a significant difference between both groups in angles of craniocervical posture, cervico-horizontal angles, anterior facial height, mandibular depth, and deep neck flexor strength. From the binary logistic regression all these variables are significant predictors when act individually. Anterior facial height and deep neck flexor strength are the most accurate predictors. Conclusion: Angle of craniocervical posture and cervico- horizontal angles, anterior facial height, mandibular depth, and deep neck flexor strength can predict neck pain in patients with temporomandibular disorders. Anterior facial height and deep neck flexor strength are the most accurate predictors

Issued also as CD