09h40 Recording of mandibular motion in different neck postures

Introduction : Correlations between jaw movement and neck posture have been established both clinically and statically. Fewer studies assessed this relationship from a kinematic point of view. No data was found regarding protrusion and diduction.

Methods: We conducted a study assessing the feasibility of an in vivo motion recording protocol using optoelectronic cameras. Mandibular movements of opening, diduction and protrusion were recorded in different neck postures.

Results: Three subjects were included for this first phase. Kinematic data was successfully obtained. Direction of diduction was not reproducible between series.

Discussion: Kinematic data was obtained and expressed according to the International Society of Biomechanic recommandations. Those data concur with physiology and previous studies of mandibular motion. The lack of reproducibility of diduction direction is probable due to subjects not starting each serie on the same side as they were not given the instruction to start on a particular side.

Conclusion: With minor rectifications, the application of this protocol on a greater number of subjects will allow to assess the influence of neck posture on mandibular motion.